People with OCD often describe feeling overwhelmed and anxious about their thoughts and behaviors. They may feel a strong urge to repeat certain actions or rituals, such as checking if the door is locked multiple times or washing their hands excessively. These behaviors can provide temporary relief from anxiety but eventually become unmanageable and disruptive in daily life.
Living with OCD can be incredibly distressing and overwhelming. The constant intrusion of unwanted thoughts and the pressure to perform compulsions can significantly impact a person’s daily life and relationships. Some common experiences of individuals with OCD include:
- Intense anxiety: people with OCD often experience intense anxiety when they are unable to perform their compulsions, leading them to feel overwhelmed and distressed.
- Inability to control thoughts or behaviors: individuals with OCD may feel like they have no control over their intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, even though they know they are irrational.
- Shame and guilt: due to the stigma surrounding mental health, individuals with OCD may feel ashamed or guilty about their obsessions and compulsions.
- Isolation: the secrecy and shame associated with OCD can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness as individuals may try to hide their symptoms from others.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that causes individuals to have recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects approximately 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children in the United States. It is characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can significantly interfere with daily life.
The exact cause of OCD is unknown, but research suggests that it may be a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. While OCD can manifest in many different ways, there are common symptoms that people with the disorder experience.
Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
One of the most challenging aspects of OCD is that it often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to its wide variety of symptoms. People with OCD may experience both obsessions and compulsions or just one or the other.
Obsessions
Obsessions are intrusive thoughts, urges, or mental images that can create intense anxiety and distress. Some common obsessions include:
- Fear of contamination: this obsession often involves excessive hand-washing, fear of touching certain objects or people, and excessive cleaning.
- Fear of harm: individuals with this obsession may constantly worry about causing harm to themselves or others, leading them to perform compulsive behaviors to prevent it.
- Need for symmetry or exactness: this obsession can cause a person to feel extreme discomfort if things are not in perfect order or aligned correctly.
Compulsions
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels compelled to perform in response to their obsessions. These behaviors are often done in an attempt to reduce anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts, but they can become so excessive that they interfere with daily life. Some common compulsions include:
- Checking: this compulsion involves repeatedly checking things such as locks, appliances, and personal belongings.
- Counting: individuals with this compulsion may feel the need to count objects or perform certain actions a specific number of times.
- Arranging or organizing: this compulsion involves arranging objects in a particular order or pattern.
What Do People with OCD Experience?
Individuals with OCD may also experience physical sensations such as tingling, tension, or tightness in their muscles when they are unable to perform their compulsions. This can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness.
OCD can also have a significant emotional impact on individuals. They may feel intense fear, guilt, shame, or disgust related to their obsessions and compulsions. This can lead to a constant cycle of negative thoughts and emotions, making it difficult to focus on anything else.
OCD can also affect relationships with others. People with OCD may have difficulty maintaining meaningful connections due to their obsessions and compulsions. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their behaviors, leading them to isolate themselves from family and friends. This can further contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
How to Determine if Intrusive Thoughts are from OCD?
It is important to note that not all intrusive thoughts are related to OCD. It is common for people to experience random and unwanted thoughts from time to time, but those with OCD may have a harder time dismissing these thoughts and feel a strong need to act on them through compulsions. If you are unsure if your intrusive thoughts are related to OCD, it is best to consult with a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment plan.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Take the first step towards managing your OCD by reaching out for support and guidance. You deserve to live a fulfilling life free from the constraints of OCD.
Together, we can overcome this disorder and promote understanding and acceptance for all those affected by it. Let us continue to spread awareness and support each other in our journeys towards mental well-being because no one should have to face OCD alone.
What are Examples of Intrusive Thoughts, Images, Urges, Sensations, and Memories?
Examples of intrusive thoughts, images, urges, sensations, and memories can vary greatly and are unique to each individual. They can range from the following:
- fears of harming oneself or others
- contamination fears
- sexual or religious obsessions
- concerns about symmetry and order
- violent or disturbing thoughts that go against their moral code or personal values
- a constant need for reassurance
- experience physical sensations such as discomfort or tension
Seeking Help for OCD
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of OCD, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment for OCD typically involves mental health therapy and medication, which can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It’s also important for family members and friends to educate themselves about OCD and offer support and understanding to their loved ones. With the right treatment and support, individuals with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. So, it’s crucial to not only understand what OCD feels like but also how to seek help and support for those affected by it.
Westwind Recovery® Can Assist With Those Struggling With OCD
At Westwind Recovery®, we understand the challenges of living with OCD and the impact it can have on a person’s life. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care for those struggling with OCD. We offer various treatment options, including therapy and medication management, to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
OCD can be a challenging disorder to live with, but it is essential to remember that there is hope and help available for those who are affected by it. Our supportive community and resources can also provide a sense of understanding and acceptance for those affected by mental illness. If you or someone you know is struggling with OCD, do not hesitate to reach out to us for help.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
