Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: More Than Just Neatness
Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: More Than Just Neatness
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is often misunderstood. While the term is often used casually to describe being neat and organized, OCD is a serious mental health condition that can significantly impact a person’s daily life.
On this episode of the More Than a Therapy Couch podcast, we sit down with Alyssa Cohen, LCSW to break down the misconceptions surrounding OCD and offer insight into how therapy and medication can help manage symptoms effectively.
What is OCD?
OCD is a chronic disorder characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts, or obsessions, and excessive, repetitive behaviors, or compulsions, that can cause significant distress and interfere with one’s daily life. The disorder can affect every individual differently, but often centers on themes.
Common Obsessions Include:
Fear of contamination or germs
Unwanted, distressing thoughts (e.g., violent, religious, or sexual themes)
Excessive concern with order, symmetry, or exactness
Fear of harming oneself or others
Common Compulsions Include:
Excessive handwashing or cleaning
Checking behaviors (e.g. ensuring doors are locked multiple times)
Repeating actions or words until they “feel right”
Mental rituals, such as silent prayers or counting
OCD can interfere with work, relationships, and personal well-being. Tasks that may seem simple, such a s leaving the house or making a decision, can become overwhelming and time-consuming. Many individuals with OCD may feel ashamed or isolated, fearing they won’t be understood. This isolation can further worsen symptoms, and make it even more difficult to seek professional help.
Cohen explains that oftentimes “people with OCD usually have some idea that their compulsions or obsessions are illogical or somewhat ‘over-the-top’ but will still struggle to disengage from them without treatment.”
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of OCD is unknown, there are several factors that can influence the likelihood that someone will develop OCD including:
Genetics: Family history may increase the likelihood of developing OCD.
Brain Structure and Functioning: Differences in brain activity and neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, may play a role.
Environmental Factors: Stress, trauma, or significant life changes can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Personality Traits: People with perfectionistic tendencies or high anxiety may be more susceptible to OCD.
When discussing OCD psychologist Johnathan Grayon’s work, Cohen shares that “OCD will commonly start during a vulnerable or stressful time in a person’s life either during childhood or early adulthood and then what usually happens is that the person will experience distressing obsessive thoughts about whatever their OCD has happened to grab a hold on.”
While OCD is treatable, it often takes intervention from skilled professionals. Therapy, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) alongside Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be highly effective in helping individuals manage their symptoms. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to their fears while preventing compulsive behaviors, ultimately helping them build resilience against anxiety. Through this structured approach, individuals can reframe some of their thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Medication Management for OCD
For some individuals, medication can be an essential part of OCD treatment. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, or SSRIs are commonly prescribed to help regulate mood and reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsions. Finding the right medication and dosage may take time, but when combined with therapy, it can provide significant relief for those struggling with symptoms. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners can play a crucial role in evaluating symptoms and prescribing appropriate medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Ultimately, Cohen shares “psychotropic medication can be a helpful part of OCD treatment for many people, but I would never recommend it for a replacement for therapy. However, it can work to make the therapeutic treatment more effective.”
When should I see a professional?
If you or a loved one are struggling with symptoms of OCD that cannot be managed on your own or are interfering with your daily life, it may be time to consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
About Tree of Life Counseling Center
At Tree of Life Counseling Center in Princeton, NJ and Freehold, NJ, we have an experienced team of 50+ clinicians to help support you, and your family, through whatever you may be facing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 732-393-8391 or filling out an online form at https://www.treeoflifecc.org/start-today
