Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a debilitating condition where constant repetitive “senseless” thoughts and behaviors severely limits living a full productive life. OCD is most troubling when it affects productivity at work or school, hinders intimate relationships, or results in social isolation.
Obsessions are intrusive, disturbing thoughts that feel very difficult to control. They often “pop up” with no trigger or reason. Some common obsessions are:
- Fear of being contaminated by germs, dirt, or other substances
- Worry you may harm others, or others will be harmed unless you warn them
- Needing things to happen order or specific sequence otherwise thing will go terribly wrong
- Excessive attention paid to superstitions
- Undue stress over tossing items away
- Unwanted thoughts of sexual deviance
- Fearing religious sins and the wrath of god
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that people perform to reduce anxiety from the obsessions. However, reducing the anxiety is only temporary. The obsessions soon return and the compulsions have to be performed over again. Some common compulsions are:
- Excessive hand washing, bathing, or showering
- Constant double-checking of locked doors, stoves
- Counting numbers or repeating words-phrases in your head
- Arranging or placing things so they are “perfect”
- Unnecessary house cleaning or clothes washing
- Hoarding old mail, bills, newspapers
- Tapping objects repeatedly for “good luck”
- Reciting the same prayer over and over
OCD can present itself in different ways. People typically have their own “version” of OCD. Having the right therapy technique and the right therapist for your particular OCD is critical for your success. On your initial consultation at BHNY we will listen closely to your OCD issues and recommend the type of therapy and the therapist we feel will give you the best results.