Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a highly-stigmatized and misunderstood condition. Though often associated with cleaning and organization, this disorder is far more than a drive for perfectionism. OCD, in reality, is based on repetitive and unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to specific behaviors (compulsions). Though everyone has unwanted thoughts from time to time, individuals with OCD experience these thoughts to a degree that causes significant distress and anxiety. Those with OCD become quickly trapped in a spiral of compulsions that aim to ease the intrusive thoughts, which in turn fuel the compulsive behaviors. This could manifest as a fear of germs that causes one to wash their hands until they crack and bleed, or to mentally repeat phrases until the obsession is repressed. Regardless of the manifestation, compulsions are rarely rooted in reality, and only provide short-term relief for obsessive thoughts.

It is not uncommon for those with OCD to recognize that their compulsion is only going to give temporary results. For many, temporary relief is better than letting the intrusive thought continue for long periods of time. Long-term relief from these symptoms can be found in many different treatments, which can grant a patient peace of mind and a higher quality of life.

What are the common symptoms?

OCD has a spectrum of symptoms, and they vary from person to person. Some of those symptoms include:

  • Rituals
  • Excessive hand washing
  • Engaging in repetitive physical or mental behaviors
  • Constant checking and ordering
  • A significant amount of time spent on completing compulsions
  • Debilitating intrusive thoughts
  • Only temporary relief from compulsive behaviors

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Statistics*

An estimated 7.5 million American’s will have symptoms of OCD in their lifetime.

76% of those with OCD have had another anxiety disorder (such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder) within their lifetime. Often, this occurs at the same time as OCD.

*Statistics taken from pubmed.gov, National Library of Medicine (nimh.nih.gov), and uptodate.com

Treatment Options

Psychotherapy (AKA Talk Therapy)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an effective way to help those with OCD. A specific therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention therapy is a highly successful method to reduce compulsive behaviors.

Medication

Psychiatrists work with individuals to create a treatment plan that fits their needs and lifestyle.

TMS Therapy

After clinical studies proved TMS Therapy to be an effective treatment for OCD, the FDA cleared TMS as a treatment in 2018. TMS is helpful for those with OCD who have tried medicine and had little to no success.

Related Conditions: Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Panic Disorders & Panic Attacks