OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, can interfere with normal work and social relationships. This disorder is characterized by the need to perform specific behaviors (compulsions) in response to triggers (obsessions). OCD can be debilitating for some, and it is strongly recommended that you seek help if you are engaging in obsessive thinking or compulsions for most of your days. Helping people manage and overcome OCD is a specialty of Myriam Padron, PsyD, who has received specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD. If you’re concerned that you have habits or behaviors that suggest OCD, call to set up an appointment or 15-minute consultation.
WHAT IS OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER?
OCD is characterized by recurring thoughts and repetitive behaviors. It’s common to have periodic thoughts that focus on certain subjects or to perform repetitive routines, but OCD is different. If you have OCD, you have no control over your recurring thoughts, sensations, or ideas, which are often unwanted. In severe cases, you may have thoughts centered on harming yourself or others — seek immediate care if this is true for you. Obsessive fear of contamination is also common, as is a fixation on unwanted mental images or “taboo” thoughts. These thoughts are intrusive and unwanted in nature, but come up frequently throughout the day, which may cause academic/social/work impairments.
In order to gain relief or neutralize these thoughts, one with OCD may engage in repetitive behaviors or compulsions. Common compulsions include: excessive checking, seeking reassurance, compulsive washing/cleaning, repeating a certain phrase, moving or touching particular objects a certain number of times.
Most people who suffer from OCD notice the symptoms as early as childhood or adolescence, or they come on in early adulthood.
how do i know i have ocd?
Some people are quite aware that their obsessive thoughts are not in line with reality or are excessive in nature. They understand that their compulsive behaviors can be irrational or unreasonable. This awareness can cause additional stress, however, because although they know their thoughts/behaviors aren’t “normal,” they feel as though they can’t control them.
In other cases, however, people with OCD believe that there is some truth and necessity to their obsessive thought patterns. They may feel that their impulses are completely rational and essential in preventing harm. If you’re concerned about OCD behaviors or if you have had loved ones express concern over your behaviors, it may be worth arranging a consultation to gain more insight from a professional.
how is ocd treated?
Dr. Padron addresses OCD with the gold standard of therapy — a specialty of hers. This involves Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which helps you decrease compulsive behaviors and increase tolerance to obsessive thoughts. ERP gradually exposes you to your feared obsessive thoughts without the use of compulsions. Exposures are conducted in session or may be completed out in the real world. Dr. Padron completes exposures with you, as she believes it is important to work together as a team to conquer your OCD symptoms.
Each treatment plan she creates is highly individualized. She takes into account your unique background, experiences, and the ways that OCD impacts your life. Treatment consists of challenging tasks that empower you while decreasing the hold that OCD has on your life. Emphasis is placed on skills-building and living a life congruently with your values and goals.