Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder OCD report experiencing an uncontrollable and irrational need to check things repeatedly and/or experience patterns of thought to perform routines and rituals over and over. Those patterns of thought and repeated performance of rituals cause significant distress and negatively impact the ability to function independently.

As with many mental health disorders, there is no certain cause of OCD, but rather agreement among professionals that the severity of symptoms can be greatly influenced by genetic, environmental, medical, and social factors. Although OCD symptoms can be severe, they can be treated effectively with medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy. The following are some of the most commonly reported symptoms of OCD:

  • Repeated thoughts and/or images causing feelings of fear and anxiety.
  • Engaging in ritual behaviors over and over.
  • Inability to control or manage unwanted patterns of thought and behavior.
  • Experience no pleasure or relief as a result of engaging in ritual behavior.
  • Experience thoughts and/or engage in ritual behavior for at least one hour per day.

Seek Help

Medication management for OCD typically provides for a combination of antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications. Psychotherapeutic treatment for OCD typically includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy CBT, such as exposure and response prevention.

If your loved one is suffering from symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, call us now for a confidential review of your case at (305) 467-8666.