Compulsive thoughts

Why do people get OCD?

The causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are complex and thought to be a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. It is important to note that there is no single specific cause of OCD, but rather an interplay of different factors.

Obsessive thoughts in children

OCD can affect a child’s daily life and well-being in many ways. The child might have constantly recurring thoughts that are unpleasant or frightening. These thoughts are often irrational or exaggerated, with the child doing various compulsive acts as a consequence. This can lead to anxiety and interfere with everyday activities. Children often seek reassurance from adults and ask lots of questions. Children may also experience increased negative emotions from OCD such as anger and withdrawal.

Why children develop OCD is not fully understood but the causes are likely to be similar to adults, although stressful events such as divorce, bereavement or changing schools can make the condition worse.

What can you do as a parent of a child with OCD?

If you have a child with OCD, you can educate yourself to be able to provide adequate support, but also contact a child psychologist or doctor if necessary. It is important to create a supportive environment for expressing feelings at home and not to reinforce compulsive behaviours. If necessary, you can also talk to the school. It is good to seek help as soon as possible so that problems do not get worse in the long run.

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Obsessions and neuropsychiatric problems

Many people with neuropsychiatric problems, such as autism, suffer from obsessive thoughts. This may be because they are detail-oriented and perfectionist. Problems with flexibility can also lead to people getting stuck in thoughts about how they should be. If you have been diagnosed or believe you have autism, you can seek help from a licensed psychologist or occupational therapist to help you manage thoughts, feelings and behaviours that have become problematic.

OCD and perfectionism

OCD, which is the diagnosis for compulsive thoughts and actions, is similar to perfectionism. To reduce anxiety, people perform various behaviours or rituals that can take up time and energy. If you don’t perform the compulsion, you may have catastrophic thoughts and strong fears. Examples of OCD include turning lights on and off, checking the stove or washing hands for fear of germs. OCD is similar to perfectionism because people often want to do the compulsion in a certain specific, exacting way to get emotional relief. OCD can be treated, but it may require effort.

Symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive thoughts often occur as part of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the symptoms can vary from person to person, often following similar patterns. Symptoms vary from mild to severe, and change over time.

OCD consists mainly of obsessions and compulsions, with obsessions being intrusive and recurrent thoughts while compulsions are repetitive behaviours such as washing hands, counting, and checking things. Compulsions can also be mental, such as repeating certain words to reduce anxiety. They may also ask a lot of questions to their surroundings and seek other reassurances to reduce anxiety, which may work temporarily but the anxiety often comes back. Obsessions can also include fear of dirt or germs, doubting whether you have turned off the stove, needing to organise things in certain ways, fear of certain thoughts of a sexual or violent nature, and a fear that you will act on your thoughts even though you have never done so before.

It is important to emphasise that obsessions and compulsions are unwanted and create significant suffering or disability. Anxiety and stress may be high in general, and the problems may lead to feelings of shame and isolation. People with these symptoms should seek professional help to get effective treatment.

Treatment of obsessions

It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is suffering from OCD. A psychiatrist or psychologist can offer a personalised treatment plan and help find the most effective combination of interventions. The treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. For more severe problems, a referral to specialist psychiatry can be made through your GP.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

This is the most effective form of psychotherapy for OCD. CBT involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. One tool in CBT, known as exposure and response prevention (ERP), is particularly effective. It involves gradually exposing the patient to their fears or obsessions so they learn to avoid performing compulsive acts in response. This is done in a process that is safe and predictable.

Medication

Some people with OCD may benefit from medication, such as antidepressants (especially SSRIs). These medications can help control anxiety symptoms, making it easier to participate in therapy and daily activities.

Support groups and education

Attending support groups and learning more about their syndrome can help patients and their families manage the condition better. This in turn can reduce feelings of isolation and help with treatment.

Seeking help can change your life

OCD is not something you need to deal with on your own. Talking to a professional therapist or psychologist can help you understand your problem better and receive CBT. You are not alone and it is okay to ask for help.

Your next step

If you or someone you know is struggling with obsessive thoughts and beliefs, it is a good idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. Lavendla’s therapists and psychologists qualified and keep your conversations strictly confidential. Don’t be afraid to take that first step.

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