What is OCD?
“Sorry, I’m just a little OCD” is probably a phrase many of us have heard. OCD is usually not taken seriously when mentioned in passing conversation, but it is not just about being overly neat. In this article, we want to define what OCD really is, and the different treatment options that are available for people struggling with this very real mental health issue.
Defining OCD
According to the DMS-5, OCD is a psychological disorder characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions.
Obsessions involve persistent images, thoughts, and urges that are unwanted, and usually cause a great deal of anxiety and distress. When a person experiences obsessive thoughts or mental images, they either try to suppress them, or get rid of them through different compulsions. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that individuals with OCD feel driven to perform like handwashing or touching certain objects, or mental acts such as counting or praying.
While there are many types of obsessions and compulsions, most manifest as:
• Cleaning obsessions and compulsions
• Symmetry obsessions and compulsions
• Forbidden or taboo thoughts
• A fear of harming oneself or others
So, as you can see, while an obsession and compulsion for cleanliness can be a sign of OCD, symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways.
Treatments for OCD
Treatments for OCD can include both medication and psychotherapy. While SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like fluoxetine (Prozac) and certain anti-depressants are proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of OCD, psychotherapy can often be the most effective. For example, treatments like ERP (exposure, response, prevention) and ACT (acceptance, commitment, therapy) are two of the most effective therapeutic treatment models for OCD.
How Wellspring Can Help
Many people with OCD try to hide it from themselves and others. If you or a loved one is currently struggling with OCD, you don’t need to suffer in silence. 1 Peter 5:10 says, “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.” Together with Christ, let us help you put an ease to your suffering. Contact Wellspring to meet with a therapist for treatment through our website or by phone, at (305) 722-5380.
