Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) typically begins in children and teens but may not emerge until adult ages as well. Though the symptoms may fluctuate, OCD always causes anxiety and often disrupts your daily activities. Mindy Pearson, PhD, at Advent Family Psychology, treats people of all ages, helping them overcome their obsessions and compulsions with individualized psychotherapy. Early treatment sets the stage for success in school and life, so don’t wait to seek help. Call the office in Lehi, Utah, or book an appointment online today.
OCD causes uncontrollable thoughts (obsessions) followed by the urge to do something to stop the thoughts (compulsions). The actions you take to control the thoughts become ritualistic, repetitive behaviors.
Compulsive behaviors temporarily relieve your obsessions, but the thoughts return, creating a cycle that causes extreme anxiety. If you have severe OCD, you may spend so much time focusing on your thoughts and behaviors that you can’t take care of daily responsibilities.
The name of this mental health disorder sounds like you must have obsessions and compulsions. However, you can have one without the other.
Most people with OCD have obsessions that follow a theme. A few of the most common include:
You realize your thoughts are not rational or realistic, but you still can’t make them stop.
Your compulsive behaviors usually follow your thoughts, but there are some exceptions. For example, some people start to count in response to any type of obsession.
These are a few common compulsions based on the obsession:
If your thoughts focus on eliminating germs, you may repeatedly wash your hands, constantly apply a hand sanitizer, or take many showers.
If your thoughts focus on a fear of being harmed, you may constantly check your windows and doors to be sure they’re locked or check the stove to be sure you turned it off. You may know you locked the door or just checked the stove, but your thoughts compel you to repeat the behavior.
You may keep moving things like furniture or books on a shelf to be sure they’re in the proper position. You keep moving them even though you previously put them in the perfect spot.
Most cases of OCD don’t improve without treatment and instead may worsen over time. Dr. Pearson uses psychotherapy to treat OCD, helping you learn ways to deal with your anxiety and obsessions and reduce or phase out compulsions.
If she determines you may benefit from medications, she refers you to a trusted physician.
Don’t wait to seek help for OCD. Call Advent Family Psychotherapy or book an appointment online today.