OCD

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) isn’t well-understood. The behavioral disorder leads to ongoing compulsive behaviors in addition to uncontrollable, recurring thoughts. It’s believed that OCD is linked to abnormalities in certain areas of your brain, although medical researchers aren’t clear as to why those abnormalities cause OCD. 

Your risk of struggling with OCD is higher due to:

• Family history of OCD
• Childhood trauma 
• Severe infections

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is known to interfere with your relationships and impact your performance at work or school. Because of these issues, understanding the signs and symptoms and getting started on treatment early is important. 

What are the symptoms of OCD?

When you have OCD, you might have obsessions or compulsions — or sometimes both. Symptoms of obsessions include:

• Extreme fear of germs
• Aggressive thoughts towards others
• Need to have things in symmetrical or perfect order

If you have compulsions or repetitive behaviors, you might experience:

• Compulsive counting 
• Excessive cleaning or hand washing
• Repeatedly checking on things, like to make sure the stove is turned off

Additionally, OCD can make it so you can’t control your thoughts or behaviors, which can seriously affect your daily tasks, especially at work. If any of these OCD symptoms are affecting you, contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates as soon as possible for an evaluation.

How does a doctor treat OCD?

Your obsessive-compulsive disorder treatment plan from Boston Neurobehavioral Associates depends on the severity of your symptoms. After evaluating you and going over your personal medical history, your provider can prescribe medications if needed.

In many cases, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) are beneficial to enhance brain chemical functions, so you experience relief from your OCD symptoms. Medications don’t work alone though, and your provider may also recommend psychotherapy sessions.

Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy for OCD, can help reverse habits and teach you how to control your thoughts. Your provider teaches you lifestyle changes and new habits you can use throughout the day to manage your OCD symptoms.

If you have OCD, the dedicated team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates can help. You can book an OCD evaluation through the website, or you can call the location nearest you to schedule.