Information about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Blurb

It’s common to hear people say, “I’m a little bit OCD,” and that’s completely wrong. A person who suffers from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) finds their entire life seriously and negatively affected by it. Just like there’s no such thing as being “a little bit pregnant,” there’s no such thing as “a little OCD.” But what is OCD?

OCD is a chronic, serious condition marked in which a person has reoccurring, unwelcome and uncontrollable thoughts (obsessions) and uncontrollable behaviors (compulsions) that the person feels they must carry out. If the person doesn’t perform certain specific actions, their anxiety level becomes unbearable.

Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety. Common symptoms include:

Fear of contamination or fear of germs, dirt or contamination.
Unwanted, intrusive thoughts about religion, sex, harming others, or other taboo and disturbing thoughts.
Thoughts of order, symmetry, having items “just right,” perfectly centered. Powerful need to count items.

Compulsions are repetitive ritualistic behaviors people with OCD feel an overwhelming urge to perform as a response to an obsessive thought. Common compulsions include:

Excessive cleaning, washing clothes, showering and/or handwashing.
Ordering and arranging things in a way that is perfect for the individual.
Repeatedly checking to see if the oven is off, electrical appliances are unplugged, doors are locked, windows shut.
Compulsive counting.

Note that all people perform checks and have rituals. For example, checking to make sure all doors are locked before going to bed is simply a wise precaution. Checking them five times in a particular pattern, then repeating that exact pattern an hour later is an example of a compulsion.

People with OCD:

Are unable to control their behaviors or thoughts, even though they know their thinking and behaving is irrational and harmful.
Spends at hours each day on these thoughts or behaviors.
Doesn’t get any enjoyment or pleasure performing the rituals or behaviors.
Experiences significant problems in their daily life due to these thoughts or behaviors.

Symptoms may completely disappear or get better or worse over time. Many people with OCD will avoid situations that might provoke an OCD response, which can devastate a person’s ability to lead a satisfying life.

If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing the symptoms of OCD, seek help from an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner who can help you understand what you’re feeling, thinking and doing, why you’re feeling it and provide you options to move forward.

Damaris Aragon, ARNP, BC provides a full spectrum of mental health care to people in Spokane, Washington and surrounding areas. She focuses on providing personalized care that adheres to current evidence-based standards. Reach out to Damaris through her contact page or calling 509-342-6592.

Please visit my mental health tips blog page weekly for a new article on mental wellness; bookmark this page, and share articles with your friends and family.