OCD

What is OCD?

OCD is a condition where people have recurring, unwanted ideas, thoughts, or sensations (obsessions) that compel them to do something repeatedly (compulsions). These repetitive behaviors significantly affect daily activities, work, and family life.

Many people carry out repeated behaviors or have focused thoughts without them disrupting daily life. In fact, some of these traits add structure to a person’s day or make their tasks easier to accomplish.

For people with OCD, unwanted thoughts are persistent and ever-present. The routines and behaviors they must perform are strict, and not doing them causes the person with OCD great distress.

What obsessions and compulsions are common with OCD?

Almost anything could become an OCD obsession. However, common themes include the following:

• Extreme fear of dirt or germs
• Hatred of disorder
• Anger and aggression toward yourself or others
• Taboo subjects like sex and religion

To manage your unwanted thoughts and ideas, you develop compulsions. These often relate to your obsession, such as cleaning your house or washing your hands excessively if your obsession involves germs. You may also develop a compulsion to assert order by having everything around you in a perfect, uniform position.

Other compulsions are less obviously related to an obsession. Examples include counting, reciting certain words or phrases, turning light switches off or closing and opening doors a specific number of times, and repeatedly checking that you’ve turned electrical equipment off or locked your doors.

Can I get help for my OCD?

Dr. Brutus at La Bonne Sante Clinic has considerable experience in helping people with OCD. Therapies that are especially helpful for patients with OCD include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on helping you change your unwanted behaviors and thought patterns. Dr. Brutus helps you understand your fears and why you perform certain actions, showing you practical ways to think through the problem and curb your obsessions and compulsions.

Psychotherapy (talk therapy)

There are many types of psychotherapy. Each uses slightly different techniques to explore the underlying reasons for your OCD and other mental health conditions. Dr. Brutus helps you come to terms with traumas in your past and address the issues causing OCD.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs are often helpful for reducing the severity of your symptoms and calming patients with OCD.

To learn more about OCD and how to escape its grip, call La Bonne Sante Clinic or request an appointment online today.