Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that involves obsessive thoughts, feelings, sensations, urges, and compulsive behaviors.

An obsession involves intrusive and unwanted thoughts that create significant anxiety, uncertainty, and discomfort. Most people with OCD will report that their obsessions greatly impact their quality of life and make it hard to cope with daily life.

A compulsion is an overt or covert repetitive behavior done in an attempt to reduce the anxiety and uncertainty created by intrusive thoughts. These compulsions are very time-consuming and only reinforce the obsession.

Symptoms of OCD

Severe degrees of anxiety, panic, worries, and fear.

High levels of uncertainty, anticipatory anxiety, and dread.

Feeling “stuck” in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Lack of motivation to engage in daily activities.

Attempts to ignore or suppress or neutralize the thoughts/ impulse.

Struggles to stop compulsive behaviors and feel bad about themselves for this.

Worries “What if my thoughts are true?”

Repetitive behaviors or acts that an individual feels driven to perform are in response to an obsession or according to rigid rules.

Behaviors or acts are aimed at preventing or reducing distress or preventing some dreaded event.

Experience symptoms of depression, feeling hopeless, low self-worth, and significant self-criticism.

Obsessions or compulsions cause marked distress, are time consuming or significantly interfere with client's normal routine, functioning and relationships.