What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder where a person has a recurring obsession with engaging in compulsive behavior. The repetitive behavior can significantly interfere with normal functioning in daily activities and impede social interactions. While many people have repetitive behaviors, what distinguishes people with OCD is that they have difficulty disengaging from obsessive behaviors and compulsive actions. OCD affects 2-3% of the adults in the US and is diagnosed in more women than men.
What Are the Four Types of OCD?
Contamination Obsession
Having a repetitive compulsion to clean in fear of dirt and germs.
Checking Obsession
Having a repetitive compulsion to check for a medical condition, that doors are locked, that alarm systems are activated, or other similar behaviors.
Intrusive Thoughts and Ruminations
Having an obsessive line of thought that may be disturbing or violent.
Ordering and Symmetry
Having compulsions for maintaining a particular order or pattern; spending copious amounts of time ordering things.
What Are the Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Persons with OCD have recurrent and persistent thoughts and impulses that induce distressing emotions such as disgust or anxiety. Their thoughts are often excessive and unreasonable. The obsessive thoughts include:
- Fear of contamination
- Extreme dislike for disorder
- Disturbing sexual thoughts
- Fear of discarding things
The obsessions drive them to engage in compulsive behaviors to reduce distress. Some of the compulsive behaviors include:
- Ritualized handwashing
- Intricate ordering of things
- Repeated cleaning of household items
What Are the Causes and Risk Factors for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Healthcare professionals are not sure about the cause of OCD, through extreme stress or trauma may be probable candidates. The risk factors include:
- Close relatives with OCD
- Physical defects in parts of the brain
- Trauma
- Depression and anxiety
- A history of sexual, physical, or emotional abuse
- Sometimes, children can develop OCD after streptococcal infections
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of OCD involves determining if the compulsive behavior is:
- Time-consuming (takes at least one hour per day)
- Causes significant distress
- Beyond the control of the patient
- Interferes with daily work and social functioning
How is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Treated?
There is no permanent cure for OCD, but a psychiatrist can help you manage the condition by employing a combination of treatments that may include:
- Psychotherapy & Counseling
- Medication
- Mindfulness
Who Can Treat OCD in North Dakota and Minnesota?
We are committed to helping patients get treatment for psychiatric disorders with dignity and respect. Our providers will explore different treatment options with the patient’s family and decide on the best option. We provide the highest quality of patient-centered care in North Dakota and Minnesota to improve the quality of life for our clients.