Understanding OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-lasting disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions), engages in repetitive behaviors (compulsions), or both, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. People with OCD have time-consuming symptoms that can cause significant distress or interfere with daily life. However, Vitalize offers treatment in Fresno to help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Signs & Symptoms of OCD
People with OCD may have obsessions, compulsions, or both.
Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that are intrusive, unwanted, and make most people anxious. Common obsessions include:
- Fear of germs or contamination
- Fear of losing or forgetting something
- Fear of losing control
- Aggressive thoughts
- A desire for perfect order or symmetry
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors a person feels the urge to do, often in response to an obsession. Common compulsions include:
- Excessive cleaning
- Ordering or arranging items in a precise way
- Repeatedly checking things
- Compulsive counting
- Praying or repeating words silently
People with OCD generally can’t control their obsessions or compulsions, even when they know they’re excessive, spend more than one hour a day on their obsessions or compulsions, and experience significant problems in daily life due to these thoughts or behaviors. If you think you or your child may have OCD, reach out to our team at Vitalize to schedule an appointment.
Risk Factors for OCD
Various risk factors may increase the chances of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), though the exact causes are unknown.
Genetics: Having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with OCD increases the chance of developing the disorder. Studies exploring the connection between genetics and OCD are ongoing.
Biology: Brain imaging studies have shown that people with OCD often have differences in the frontal cortex and subcortical structures of the brain, areas of the brain that impact the ability to control behavior and emotional responses. Research is underway to better understand the connection between OCD symptoms and parts of the brain to develop targeted treatments.
Temperament: Research suggests reserved behaviors, negative emotions, and symptoms of anxiety and depression as a child are more likely to develop OCD.
Childhood trauma: Some studies reported an association between childhood trauma and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, but more research is needed.
OCD Treatment
Treatment helps many people, even those with the most severe forms of OCD. Some of the most popular ways to treat anxiety include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP)
- Medication
At Vitalize, our mental health clinicians treat OCD by selecting the best option for each patient’s needs. They also explain the benefits and risks of each treatment. Following your treatment plan is important because therapy and medication can take some time. Although there is no cure for OCD, treatments help people manage their symptoms, engage in day-to-day activities, and lead full, active lives.
Note: The information on this page is provided in part by the National Institute of Mental Health. For more up-to-date information, click here.
