OCD
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a treatable mental health condition that affects how individuals think and behave. People with OCD experience persistent, uncontrollable and unwanted thoughts, mental images or urges (obsessions) that cause significant anxiety and stress. To alleviate this anxiety, individuals may engage in repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). These behaviors are often time-consuming and can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
How Does OCD Manifest?
OCD symptoms vary from person to person and often develop over time. Symptoms can begin gradually, sometimes starting in childhood or adolescence, and may intensify during periods of stress or significant life changes. Initially, the symptoms might be mild or manageable, but they can become more severe if left unaddressed. In some cases, OCD may emerge suddenly in response to a specific event or trauma.
Some common obsessions include fears of contamination, intrusive thoughts, and a need for symmetry or exactness. While intrusive thoughts can occur in anyone, for those with OCD, these thoughts are overwhelming and uncontrollable and can become consuming. Individuals utilize compulsions to in an attempt to "neutralize" the fears associated with the thoughts/obsessions.
Examples of OCD in Daily Life
Fear of Contamination: An individual may have an intense fear of germs or dirt, leading to excessive handwashing that can consume hours each day.
Compulsive Checking: A person might repeatedly check if doors are locked, appliances are turned off, or tasks are completed correctly, often revisiting the same checks multiple times and going back to recheck after already checking.
Need for Symmetry or Exactness: An individual may feel compelled to arrange items in a specific order, such as perfectly aligning books on a shelf or organizing desk items meticulously. Deviations from this order can cause significant anxiety until corrected.
Intrusive Thoughts: Individuals may experience unwanted, distressing thoughts about harming themselves or others, despite having no intention of acting on them. Others may have intrusive thoughts about taboo topics (e.g., sex or religion).
Counting or Repeating Rituals: A person might feel the need to count to a certain number, repeat specific phrases, or perform tasks a set number of times to prevent something bad from happening.
Avoidance Behaviors: To avoid triggering obsessions, some individuals may steer clear of certain situations, places, or objects. For example, someone fearing contamination might avoid public restrooms or decline dining out at restaurants.
OCD Treatment at Upper East Side Psychology
There are evidence-based treatments are available to reduce OCD symptoms and help you regain control over your life.
At Upper East Side Psychology, our therapists specialize in treating OCD using proven methods, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). ERP involves gradually and safely exposing you to anxiety triggers while supporting you in resisting the urge to perform compulsive behaviors, thereby breaking the cycle of obsession and compulsion.
Take the first step toward recovery and improved well-being. Schedule a free consultation today to explore how we can support you on your journey to managing OCD and enhancing your quality of life.