What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, commonly known as OCD, is characterized by a pattern of unreasonable thoughts and obsessions that cause a person to act compulsively, performing repetitive behaviors.
How Can Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Impact Your Life?
OCD can vary in intensity, and when it becomes unmanageable it can interfere with everyday activities and cause significant anxiety and distress.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person feels obligated to perform. People with OCD act compulsively with the intention of preventing or reducing the anxiety related to their obsessions, and/or stopping something bad from happening. Engaging in compulsive behavior may seem to offer a sense of relief from anxiety, however, performing compulsions brings no pleasure and only offers temporary relief. A person with OCD might construct rules or rituals that help control their anxiety when they’re experiencing obsessive thoughts, however, these compulsions are often excessive and unrelated to the problem they’re facing.
Examples of compulsive behavior include
- Washing and cleaning
- Checking
- Counting
- Orderliness
- Following a strict routine
- Demanding reassurances
What Are The Symptoms Of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD usually includes both obsessions and compulsions, however, a person may also experience obsession symptoms without compulsions, and vice versa. Obsessions are repeated, persistent and unwanted thoughts urges, or images that are intrusive and cause distress and/or anxiety.
How Can Lightfully Help With Your Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
At Lightfully Behavioral Health, we realize the importance of having a common language to describe symptoms the individual might be experiencing. Even so, we see our clients as more than just their diagnoses. Clients can expect an integrated and inclusive treatment plan from an exceptionally equipped team that focuses on the core processes which underlie their symptoms and all human suffering. In this way, we work to help the client develop an integrated self and a more balanced, meaningful life.
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