According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects 2-3% of the population. The disorder is characterized by a pattern of unwanted thoughts or fears (obsessions) that cause an individual to perform a set of repetitive behaviors (compulsions). OCD interferes with a person’s daily activities and can lead to significant distress.
People who are diagnosed with OCD typically experience both obsessions and compulsions. However, there are some individuals who only experience symptoms of obsessions or only symptoms of compulsion.
Obsessions are persistent and repeated unwanted thoughts, urges or images that cause you to feel stress or anxiety. Though you may try to ignore these mental intrusions, most with OCD relieve the stress and tension by performing a compulsive behavior or ritual.
The following are some of the most common symptoms of obsessions:
OCD compulsions are repetitive behaviors that an individual feels driven to perform in an effort to relieve the stress triggered by their obsession or stop something bad from happening.
Some of the most common symptoms of compulsion are:
However, some people make the mistake of confusing perfectionism – a driving urge to have flawless results or a perfect performance – with OCD. But they are not the same thing. OCD symptoms take a real toll on an individual and interfere with their quality of life.
Despite the difficulty of gaining control over symptoms of OCD, there are several options for treatment including medication, psychotherapy, and even treatments with devices that can used to stimulate the brain.
In summary, If you or someone you know who is diagnosed with OCD or you think you or they may have OCD based on these symptoms, please feel free to call our office. Telapsychiatry would be happy to speak to you about your specific concerns and the treatment options available to you.
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