Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is more than just a preference for order or cleanliness. OCD can be a debilitating condition that deeply impacts one’s quality of life and sense of self.

What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and the urge to perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions) in an attempt to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes.

For those living with OCD, the intrusive thoughts are often frequent and distressing for the individual, while the compulsive behaviors can be time-consuming and interfere with everyday activities. Both can be irrational, but the anxiety can be too strong to overcome, therefore difficult to control.

To meet the DSM-5 criteria for OCD, the obsessions or compulsions must:

1. 1. cause marked distress, are time-consuming (take more than 1 hour a day), or significantly interfere with the person’s normal routine, work or school life, or relationships;
   2. not be related to another mental health disorder, such as an Eating Disorder, Trichotillomania, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Substance Abuse, or Hypochondria;
   3. not be related to substance abuse or a medical condition.

What is the difference between OCD and anxiety?

Ruminating on worrisome or negative thought patterns is often a symptom of depression and anxiety, particularly feelings of guilt or shame. However, these are primarily related to the individual’s current mood and are realistic, everyday stressors that can be controlled through learned coping methods.

The intrusive thoughts present in those with OCD are unrealistic and oftentimes impossible, such as being compelled to flip a light switch 6 times to prevent the President from dying. They are particularly distressing and unwanted, and the related rituals will more significantly impair daily life.

What are common examples of OCD?

The signs and symptoms of OCD can differ from other disorders by the specific content of the obsessions and compulsions, and can include:

1. Examples of common obsessions (intrusive thoughts and fears)

• Fear of getting contaminated by people or the environment
• Disturbing sexual thoughts or mental images
• Fear of being responsible for a crime
• Extreme concern with symmetry or precision
• Recurrent intrusive thoughts of sounds, images, words, or numbers

1. Examples of compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the distress caused by obsessions)

• Excessive or naturalized hand washing, showering, brushing teeth, or toileting
• Repeatedly checking locks, switches, or appliances, turning them on and off
• Organizing until it feels “just right”, and not to a particular cleanliness standard
• Consistently checking that you did not hurt someone or make a mistake
• Mental compulsions like praying, reviewing events, or counting
• Bodily compulsions like touching your right shoulder after your left has been touched for “symmetry”

What does therapy and treatment for OCD involve?

The most common treatment plan for OCD involves a combination of talk therapy with a mental health professional and medication.

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on how your thoughts, feelings, and attitudes affect your behaviors and physical reactions. Your therapist will help you identify patterns of thought that cause anxiety, distress, or negative behaviors and adopt new attitudes and strategies to manage intrusive thoughts in healthier ways.
2. Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) is the primary type of therapy for treating OCD, falling under the umbrella of CBT. You’ll work with your therapist to identify and rank your obsessions and compulsions from least to greatest distress, and then gradually expose you to situations you find uncomfortable, slowly increasing the duration and frequency of exposure.
3. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy teaches that our thoughts and feelings are not inherently problematic. ACT teaches psychological flexibility; to lean into our discomfort or distress with curiosity and compassion, and make decisions from a place of centeredness. The core principles of ACT can be summarized as:

1. Being present in the moment.
2. Opening up to whatever thoughts and feelings arise without resisting them
3. Doing what matters to you and taking intentional steps toward being the person you would like to be.

4. Medications will be discussed and prescribed by a trained psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. You will work with your psychiatrist to develop a medication management plan to stay organized with your intake and note signs of improvement.

Looking for a therapist for OCD in Massachusetts?

If intrusive thoughts, fears, or compulsive behaviors are interfering with your ability to live fully, we’re here to help. At Handel Behavioral Health, many of our highly trained therapists specialize in therapy for OCD and anxiety-related mental health conditions. Our therapists offer evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), as well as psychiatric services and medication management when necessary.

With a focus on understanding OCD and its potential causes and triggers, our counselors tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each client and ensure they receive personalized care and tools for long-term support.

To start working with one of our therapists for OCD in Amherst, Franklin, West Springfield, Wilbraham, or Natick, or online throughout Massachusetts, contact us today at (413) 343-4357 or request an appointment online.

 

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