What is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by the presence of recurrent intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors that the individual feels compelled to carry out either in response to an obsession or in a very rigid manner (compulsions). Patients suffering from OCD may experience either obsessions or compulsions or both.
People with OCD often experience a tremendous amount of guilt, feeling that they should be able to control their thoughts or compulsions. However these thoughts become some fixed in their mind that they are often incredibly difficult if not impossible to control. For those who are able to control their thoughts and/or compulsions with great effort, their entire life may revolve around doing so.
OCD can cause a great deal of distress and interfere greatly with a person’s life. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 2-3% of people in the United States have this condition.
Common Symptoms of OCD
OCD presents differently for all people. Some common examples of obsessive thoughts include:
- Need for symmetry, perfection, and neatness
- Fixation on organization
- Fear of causing harm to other people
- Fear of germs and dirt
- Intrusive images or sounds
- Upsetting sexual and/or violent thoughts
Examples of compulsive behaviors include:
- Repeatedly performing tasks a specific number of times
- Checking things repeatedly (i.e. door locks)
- Washing hands or bathing constantly
- Arranging objects in a specific manner that has no practical basis
- Repeating certain phrases over and over
What Causes OCD?
While the exact cause of OCD is not known, it is likely a combination of a genetic predisposition and one or more stressors, such as:
- Loss of a loved one
- Changes in living situation
- Emotional or physical abuse
- Relationship issues
- Problems at school or work
- Traumatic brain injury
- Physical illness
Treatment Options
Medication Management
Medications can be very helpful in easing the symptoms of OCD. The first line treatment for OCD is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a type of antidepressant. In addition, other antidepressants can be helpful, and in severe cases antipsychotics can be used in addition to the antidepressant to relieve symptoms. Antidepressants can take up to 8 weeks to have their full effect at a given dose, and should be maintained for at least 6 months to a year after a patient responds, so it is very important to take your medication as directed. If you notice any side effects, be sure to let your psychiatrist know right away.
Talk Therapy
Therapy is often recommended for those suffering from OCD. Patients can learn how to manage intrusive thoughts and anxieties and change unhelpful behaviors instead of relying on rituals. Strategies for coping will be developed and practiced for lasting change.
Common therapeutic treatments for OCD include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy
- Exposure and response prevention (ERP)
Interventional Treatments
In addition to medication management and talk therapy, there are other treatments available for people who do not respond to those or who cannot tolerate medications for some reason. These options include Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and infusion therapy.
Our OCD Treatment Approach
At Chrysalis, we focus on developing individualized treatment plans for OCD based on the unique needs of each patient. We know that no two patients are exactly alike and what works for one patient will not necessarily work for the next. We work with patients of all ages and assess specific needs for OCD medication and/or therapy. Our goal is to help each patient achieve their mental wellness goals and feel in control of their day-to-day life again.
Call Chrysalis Psychiatry at 505-503-6300 to make an appointment for OCD treatment in Albuquerque, New Mexico, or fill out our contact form, and a representative will contact you as soon as possible.