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Living with obsessions can be challenging. If you are looking for ways to deal with OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder, this article is for you.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychological condition that affects individuals of all ages. But what exactly is OCD? In short, the disorder is characterised by unwanted and intrusive thoughts, known as obsessions, and behaviours or rituals, known as compulsions. If you suffer from compulsive behavior, it may be time to seek help through therapy.
How common is OCD?
To give a clear picture, various studies show that about 2-3% of Irish people have experienced symptoms of OCD at some point. So if you have OCD or any other obsessive-compulsive disorder, you are not alone.
Examples of OCD and obsessive-compulsive disorder include collector’s syndrome, perfectionism, dysmorphophobia, dermatillomania and trichotillomania.
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How OCD can affect your daily life
To give an illustration, let’s say you feel an overwhelming sense that your hands are dirty. You wash them once, twice, maybe ten times, but still it doesn’t feel like enough. This is an example of how a person with OCD may experience their everyday life.
Symptoms and signs
To understand OCD better, it is important to recognise the most common symptoms and signs. These can include:
- Obsessive thoughts: Unwanted, intrusive thoughts that provoke anxiety.
- Compulsions: Rituals or behaviors performed to reduce anxiety.
- Anxiety and stress: Experiences of high anxiety if the compulsion is not performed.
Before moving on, it may be important to mention that there are different subtypes of OCD, including cleaning OCD, control OCD, and more. Each individual is unique and may experience different symptoms so it is important to find the right therapy for you.
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The different types of therapy that can help
CBT as an effective method
As OCD is a complex disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Here are some therapies that have been shown to be effective:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is the most proven method for dealing with OCD. CBT helps you understand your obsessions and how to change your behavior.
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): This is a subcategory of CBT and focuses on exposing you to your fears.
- Medication: In some cases, medication can be an adjunct to therapy.
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 not only help you understand your condition better but also offer effective ways to deal with it. You are not alone and it is okay to ask for help. On our website, we have qualified therapists and psychologists who are happy to help you get out of compulsive behaviors.
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Common misconceptions about therapy
Many people think that therapy is only for “severe” cases or that seeking help is a weakness. In both cases, these are misconceptions. Rather, therapy is a step towards improvement and we make the difficult easier by connecting you with qualified therapists and psychologists online and onsite.
Your next step
If you or someone you know is struggling with compulsive behaviors, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. We assure you that all therapists and psychologists on our platform are qualified and that your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Living with OCD can be a daily struggle but there is help available. With the right support and tools, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take the plunge, we are here to support you. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.
12 common questions about OCD and obsessive-compulsive disorder
What is OCD?
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a mental health disorder characterised by compulsive thoughts and actions. It can affect an individual’s daily life to varying degrees.
How is OCD diagnosed?
A diagnosis of OCD is usually made by a psychologist or psychiatrist through various tests and assessments. It may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.
Is OCD hereditary?
Research shows that OCD may have a genetic component but it is not the only factor. Environment and upbringing also play a role.
What are the symptoms of OCD?
The most common symptoms include unwanted, intrusive thoughts and repetitive rituals or behaviors, such as washing or controlling.
How is OCD treated?
Treatment can include medication, such as SSRIs, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be particularly effective.
Is there a cure for OCD?
There is currently no cure for OCD, but with the right treatment, symptoms can be managed and quality of life significantly improved.
Can children get OCD?
Yes, OCD can affect children and teenagers. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.
How common is OCD?
About 1-2% of the population is estimated to have some form of OCD, but many cases go undetected.
Does OCD affect my ability to work?
Yes, in severe cases OCD can lead to work disability. However, it is possible to return to normal functioning with proper treatment.
How does OCD differ from normal habits or routines?
Unlike normal habits, compulsive actions and thoughts are involuntary, time-consuming and often lead to significant suffering.
Can you live a normal life with OCD?
Yes, with the right support and treatment, many people with OCD can live a full, meaningful life.
How can I get help with my OCD?
Through our site, you can book an initial session with a therapist or psychologist to describe your problems and start planning treatment.
Before you can start treatment, it is important to understand what OCD is and how it affects you. By putting your feelings and behaviors into words, you and your healthcare provider can tailor treatment to suit you.
Seek professional help
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to establish a diagnosis and discuss the most appropriate treatment for you.
Treatment methods
There are several treatment methods for OCD, but the most commonly used include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Medication such as SSRI antidepressants
- Exposure and response prevention (ERP)
Individualised plan
A customised treatment plan will be developed for you, which may include a combination of therapies, medications and possibly additional support.
Regular meetings
The next stage of treatment is usually regular meetings with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Self-help
Alongside professional treatment, you can also explore self-help methods:
- Get a support group
- Learn relaxation techniques
- Write down your thoughts and feelings
Evaluation and adjustment
After a period of time, your healthcare provider will evaluate your progress and possibly adjust your treatment plan. This may mean changing your medication or trying a different type of therapy.
Continued support
Even after the initial treatment period is over, continued follow-up and support is important. This may include regular therapy sessions or medical monitoring.
Remember to seek help on our website
If you feel overwhelmed by obsessive thoughts, you can find a wealth of resources and professional help through our platform. We aim to make the difficult a little easier for you.
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