Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Specialist

What Is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions interfere with daily life and cause significant distress.

• Obsessions: are intrusive, persistent thoughts, urges, or images that cause anxiety or discomfort (e.g., fear of contamination, doubts, or intrusive aggressive thoughts).
• Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety caused by obsessions (e.g., excessive cleaning, checking, or counting). While everyone experiences intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors occasionally, OCD involves these symptoms to a degree that disrupts normal functioning.

While everyone experiences intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors occasionally, OCD involves these symptoms to a degree that disrupts normal functioning.

How Is OCD Treated?

OCD is treated using a combination of therapies and, in some cases, medications. The most effective treatments include:

OCD is treated using a combination of therapies and, in some cases, medications. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is considered the gold standard for treating OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to feared situations or thoughts while helping them resist the urge to perform compulsions. CBT also helps individuals challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to OCD symptoms.

Medication plays a key role in OCD treatment as well. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are typically the first-line option, as they help regulate serotonin levels in the brain and reduce symptom severity. For individuals with treatment-resistant OCD, higher doses of SSRIs or combinations with other medications, such as antipsychotics, may be necessary.

Mindfulness-based interventions are another effective approach. These strategies encourage individuals to develop greater awareness of their obsessions and compulsions, helping them manage and reduce compulsive behaviors over time.