Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) services offered in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach and Dana Point, CA

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes uncontrollable obsessions that push you to develop ritualized compulsions to establish a sense of control. If problems like these are causing you distress,the team at Mind Health Institute, Orange County can help. At their offices in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point, California, they specialize in helping patients overcome OCD and lead happier, more productive lives. Call the nearest Mind Health Institute, Orange County office, or schedule a consultation online today to get relief from OCD.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Q & A

What is OCD?

OCD is a disorder characterized by recurring, often disturbing thoughts (obsessions) and urges to complete repetitive or ritualistic behaviors (compulsions). About 20% of patients with OCD only experience obsessions, and 10% only experience compulsions, but most have both.

Patients with OCD develop compulsions to control the anxiety caused by their obsessions. These activities provide temporary relief but interfere with daily life. They also contribute to increased anxiety in the long term because of the distress triggered by being unable to complete the rituals.

Around 2%-3% of the US population has OCD. It affects men and women equally. Its cause remains unknown but could involve brain chemistry, genetics, and environmental considerations.

Which obsessions and compulsions affect people with OCD?

Examples of common obsessions include:

Worries about germs or contamination
Fear of losing control
Unwanted thoughts of violent behavior
Intrusive, disturbing images
Fearing being responsible for adverse outcomes
Unwanted sexual thoughts
Excessive concern about bad behavior
Need for perfection
Superstitious beliefs

Someone with a germ obsession might compulsively wash and clean excessively. Other compulsions include:

Repeatedly checking for mistakes
Repeating behaviors like tapping or blinking
Counting to a specific number
Praying constantly
Repeatedly checking switches and locks
Reassurance seeking
Organizing belongings in perfect order
Hoarding

It’s challenging for people with OCD to control unwanted thoughts and behaviors, even when they recognize them as irrational or excessive.

How is OCD treated?

The Mind Health Institute, Orange County team uses psychotherapy and medication to treat OCD.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people with OCD to learn more rational ways to think and behave.

Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a form of CBT that reduces obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. During ERP, your therapist increases exposure to situations that usually trigger obsessions. They work with you to prevent or lessen the compulsive response and decrease anxiety.

Medication the Mind Health Institute, Orange County team is most likely to prescribe for OCD includes antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It’s possible to treat OCD with CBT or medication, but the best results usually come from combining the two.

Call the Mind Health Institute, Orange County team, or book an appointment online today if you or your child show signs of OCD.