OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD) TREATMENT

OCD is characterized by obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental rituals) that are performed to reduce anxiety. These symptoms can vary in severity and impact different areas of life.

Common Obsessions (Intrusive Thoughts)

Obsessions are persistent, unwanted thoughts, urges, or images that cause significant distress.

• Fear of Contamination – Intense worry about germs, dirt, or harmful substances leading to excessive handwashing or cleaning.
• Unwanted Aggressive or Harmful Thoughts – Disturbing fears of harming oneself or others, even without intent to act on them.
• Fear of Losing Control – Anxiety about impulsively shouting, swearing, or doing something embarrassing in public.
• Intrusive Sexual Thoughts – Disturbing or taboo thoughts about sexual behavior that cause guilt or distress.
• Perfectionism & Need for Symmetry – A strong urge to arrange objects or complete tasks in a “perfect” or specific way to relieve discomfort.
• Excessive Doubt & Fear of Making Mistakes – Persistent fear of making the wrong decision or forgetting something important, leading to repeated checking.
• Religious or Moral Obsessions (Scrupulosity) – Fear of offending religious beliefs, sinning, or failing to follow strict moral rules.

Common Compulsions (Repetitive Behaviors or Mental Rituals)

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or rituals performed to relieve anxiety caused by obsessions.

• Excessive Cleaning & Handwashing – Frequent washing or sanitizing due to fears of contamination.
• Checking Behaviors – Repeatedly checking doors, appliances, locks, emails, or personal belongings to prevent imagined harm or mistakes.
• Counting, Repeating, or Arranging – Engaging in specific numerical patterns, repeating actions (such as touching objects a certain number of times), or arranging items symmetrically to ease distress.
• Seeking Reassurance – Constantly asking others for confirmation that nothing bad will happen or that an action was done correctly.
• Mental Rituals – Silently repeating words, prayers, or phrases to “undo” or neutralize distressing thoughts.
• Avoidance Behaviors – Staying away from certain places, people, or situations that could trigger obsessions.

These symptoms can disrupt daily life, relationships, and work responsibilities, but with proper treatment, individuals with OCD can develop healthy coping strategies and regain control.