OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
OCD is more than being neat or organized—it's a serious condition that can take over daily life. Those with OCD experience intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that cause intense anxiety, and feel compelled to perform repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) to reduce that distress. OCD can consume hours each day and significantly impair work, relationships, and quality of life. If you're experiencing persistent unwanted thoughts and ritualistic behaviors, please discuss your symptoms with our qualified clinicians.
What Is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a chronic condition affecting approximately 2-3% of the population. It involves a cycle of obsessions and compulsions that individuals feel unable to control despite recognizing them as excessive or irrational. While OCD can develop at any age, symptoms typically appear in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood.
OCD is not about being particular or tidy—it’s a debilitating condition that can significantly impair functioning. The disorder affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Effective treatments can provide substantial relief.
OCD Symptoms In Adolescents
Recognizing OCD in adolescents requires attention to both obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which may be hidden out of shame. Parents and educators should look for the following signs. Their home and school environment should be observed.
Common Obsessions
- Fear of contamination or germs
- Need for symmetry or exactness
- Unwanted aggressive or harmful thoughts
- Fear of causing harm to self or others
- Excessive doubt
- Intrusive religious or sexual thoughts
- Fear of losing control
- Fear of making mistakes
Common Compulsions:
- Excessive handwashing or cleaning
- Repeated checking (locks, appliances)
- Counting, tapping, or touching rituals
- Arranging items precisely
- Seeking reassurance repeatedly
- Mental rituals (praying, reviewing)
- Avoidance behaviors
- Hoarding items
Signs And Symptoms In Adults
OCD is diagnosed in adults when obsessions and/or compulsions are time-consuming (more than one hour daily) or cause significant distress or impairment. Diagnosis requires distinguishing from other anxiety or related disorders.
Obsession Characteristics
- Recurrent, persistent thoughts
- Intrusive and unwanted
- Cause marked anxiety or distress
- Attempts to suppress or neutralize
- Recognized as products of own mind
- Not simply excessive worries about real problems
- Content often ego-dystonic
- Trigger significant emotional responses
- Trigger significant emotional responses
Compulsion Characteristics:
- Repetitive behaviors or mental acts
- Performed in response to obsessions
- Aimed at preventing distress or feared event
- Not connected realistically to what they prevent
- Clearly excessive
- Time-consuming
- Not pleasurable (may provide temporary relief)
- Cause distress when prevented
Our Treatment Approach for OCD
What Causes OCD
The exact cause involves neurobiological, genetic, and environmental factors. Brain imaging studies show differences in certain brain regions in people with OCD.
Risk factors include:
- Family history of OCD
- Brain structure and functioning differences
- Childhood trauma or stress
- Other mental health conditions
- Perfectionist personality traits
How Is OCD Treated
OCD is treatable with evidence-based approaches. Most individuals experience significant symptom reduction with appropriate treatment, though some level of symptoms may persist.
Treatment options include:
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Medication Management
For many individuals, medication can significantly reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive urges when used as part of comprehensive treatment. Our providers evaluate whether medication may be beneficial for your specific situation. It is important to consult a mental health provider to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Behavioral Therapy
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard psychological treatment for OCD, helping individuals face their fears without performing compulsions. Adults can benefit from this structured approach that gradually reduces OCD’s control.
Areas of focus include:
- Gradual exposure to feared situations
- Preventing compulsive responses
- Cognitive restructuring
- Accepting uncertainty
- Building distress tolerance
Lifestyle Changes
- Maintaining regular sleep schedules
- Reducing caffeine and stimulants
- Regular physical exercise
- Practicing mindfulness and acceptance
- Building a support network
- Limiting reassurance-seeking
Find Help With Your Anxiety At
We offer comprehensive treatment plans for people with OCD. Depending on the client’s needs, this may include medication management and supportive therapy.
Coded Healthcare also offers telepsychiatry as an option for patients who opt for the convenience of their homes. Being unable to come into the office should not prohibit anyone from receiving OCD treatment services. We will tailor a treatment plan to fit your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Question
What should I do if I or a loved one think they have OCD?
Contact a mental health provider experienced in OCD treatment. Specialized assessment ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Is OCD the same as being a perfectionist?
No. While many people use “OCD” casually, true OCD involves distressing, intrusive thoughts and time-consuming rituals that significantly impair daily life.
How is OCD diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, their impact on functioning, and ruling out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
How can Coded Healthcare help with my OCD?
Our clinicians provide evidence-based treatments including ERP therapy, medication management, and ongoing support for recovery.