What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
OCD is a chronic mental health condition that causes obsessions and compulsions. The condition can become extremely disruptive as you spend increasing amounts of time engaging in compulsive behaviors to soothe your obsessive thoughts.
Everyone has topics that they think about frequently or follows routine behaviors, but OCD is much more severe. Fortunately, Dr. Morrow can treat OCD to help you regain your quality of life.
What is the difference between obsessions and compulsions?
Obsessions are intrusive and distressing thoughts or urges. Compulsions are the repeated, ritualistic behaviors that temporarily calm your obsessions. Common themes include:
- Fear of contamination or germs
- Thoughts and fears of harming yourself or others
- Religion
- Taboo sexual thoughts
- Need for extreme order
Compulsions are the ways you behave in response to your obsessions, often to relieve your negative feelings. For example, you might clean your home or body excessively in response to a fear of germs.
Other common compulsive behaviors include repeatedly checking that you’ve completed a task, such as locking a door, counting, tapping, and repeating words or phrases silently or aloud.
When should I talk to a doctor about OCD?
OCD, like many health issues, can become more severe if untreated. Make an appointment with Dr. Morrow if you have any OCD symptoms. He provides a thorough evaluation to learn about your symptoms, lifestyle, and other factors that can impact your mental health.
How is OCD treated?
Dr. Morrow offers personalized treatment programs for OCD. Your plan could include:
Medication management
A chemical imbalance in your brain could be the root cause of your condition. Medication can relieve your symptoms and provide the mental clarity and space to focus on other therapies.
Psychotherapy
Dr. Morrow provides psychotherapy sessions to help you explore and resolve your negative thoughts and compulsive behaviors. He can help you learn and practice techniques to manage your obsessions and compulsions.
Lifestyle modifications
You may also benefit from making lifestyle adjustments to enhance your overall health. Eating a nutritious diet, exercising, and getting enough quality sleep are critical to your mental and overall health. Stress management can also help with OCD.
Dr. Morrow may recommend natural alternatives, including supplements, to complement your treatment.
Call OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. today or make an appointment online if you have any concerns about OCD.
