When obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is untreated, symptoms can worsen and interfere with normal functioning. The condition is defined by a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted thoughts or images that trigger negative feelings. Compulsions are behaviors that people engage in to alleviate the negative feelings they get from their obsessions. People who have OCD often feel a strong need to complete their rituals, even if they are aware that their behavior is irrational. This can lead to significant distress, anxiety, and depression. It can also interfere with work and relationships.
OCD treatment can help break this cycle and reduce the symptoms of OCD. Treatment typically includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, and lifestyle changes. During CBT, a therapist works with the individual to identify their obsessions and compulsions and develop strategies to manage them. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Contact 877.279.1777 to learn more about Oceanfront Recovery’s OCD treatment in California. In addition to evidence-based treatment, we offer holistic therapies like yoga and meditation, which have been proven to help reduce the symptoms of OCD.
What Is OCD?
OCD is a mental health condition marked by a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts that lead to compulsions, which are behaviors someone does to remove distress or avoid thinking about their obsessions.
Obsessions and compulsions disrupt people with OCD’s lives. Individuals may struggle in school or find their job performance impacted by the presence of their obsessions and compulsions. Oftentimes, extreme anxiety is related to someone’s obsessions. Common anxiety symptoms like sweating, worry, elevated heart rate, and nervousness are common in people with OCD.
The obsessions that are at the heart of OCD can be quite varied from person to person. A few of the most common types of obsession include:
- Dirt or uncleanliness
- Task performance or repetition
- Relationship-based obsessions
- Excessive religious or moral concern
- Perfectionism
Compulsions are the behaviors people use to cope with their obsessions. Example compulsions include washing, checking and rechecking, repeating, and arranging. People with OCD often feel a strong need to perform their rituals, even if they recognize that their behavior is irrational.
Common Treatment for OCD
OCD treatment typically involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT is an evidence-based therapy focusing on challenging negative beliefs and replacing them with healthier thinking patterns. During CBT, individuals also learn how to identify their obsessions and come up with strategies to manage them.
During OCD treatment, talk therapy focuses on the following:
- Identifying issues at play, including obsessions, physical feelings, and compulsions
- Facing obsessive thoughts without resorting to compulsions as a coping mechanism
Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help reduce intrusive thoughts and compulsions. SSRIs are a type of antidepressant that helps to regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can impact mood and behavior.
In addition to evidence-based treatment, lifestyle changes may also be beneficial for managing OCD symptoms:
- Eating healthy foods
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Practicing relaxation techniques
Holistic therapies like yoga and meditation can also be beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety.
Support groups can also help people with OCD. Going to a support group can reduce isolation, and provide an opportunity to develop new relationships with people who share similar struggles, and offer reassurance that you are not alone in dealing with OCD.
Find Treatment for OCD at Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery specializes in treating numerous mental health conditions, including OCD. Our OCD treatment focuses on evidence-based treatment, holistic therapies, and lifestyle changes to empower individuals to manage their symptoms. Contact us today at 877.279.1777 to learn more about how we can help.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we understand that it can be difficult to live with OCD and its symptoms. Our team and our oceanfront scenes can help provide a sense of peace and relaxation that go beyond traditional methods.
