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What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unrealistic fears and beliefs, often characterized as obsessions, that lead to repetitive and unnecessary behaviors, or compulsions. Someone suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder exhibits these habits so strongly that it can dramatically interfere with their daily activities and life.

These compulsions often center around an irrational or disproportionate belief. If the individual tries to just stop the behaviors, they may experience heightened anxiety and stress, leading to a heightened compulsion to engage in the behavior. However, professional help can serve to break this cycle.

What are the symptoms of OCD?

People dealing with OCD may experience compulsions due to a wide variety of reasons, such as a fear of germs or a need for things to be extremely orderly. Some common compulsive behaviors may include:

• Repetitive hand washing
• Double-checking or triple checking that the door is locked
• Anxiety when things are out of order
• Counting objects
• Following a strict routine

Each person’s form of compulsive behavior will differ. You may experience unpleasant thoughts such as images of harming yourself or others or feel a need to act out or yell in unreasonable manners.

Symptoms often begin in the teen or early adulthood years and can vary in severity from mild to severe. Life stress can make the condition worse. At times, some people experience such extreme compulsions that they can severely impact their life. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from OCD, seek professional help.

How is OCD treated?

Fortunately, there are effective treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder. At times, certain medications may be able to help reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. In addition, psychotherapy has shown to be an effective treatment for OCD, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy.

Over time, therapy can help you develop healthier ways to deal with compulsive urges. As an anxiety and OCD specialist and obsessive-compulsive disorder therapist, Michael John Arnold has extensive experience helping his patients overcome obsessive-compulsive disorder, allowing them to reclaim their lives.

To learn more about obsessive-compulsive disorder and how you can get the relief that you seek, call or book online today to schedule an appointment.