What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
OCD is a mental health condition associated with unwanted, uncontrollable, and recurring thoughts and behaviors. OCD might make you repeat certain behaviors over and over, experience fear and anxiety, or complete ritualistic behaviors you can’t control. Treatment at Axis Psychiatry offers you symptom relief.
What are the symptoms of OCD?
Common signs and symptoms often associated with OCD obsessions and compulsions include:
Obsessions
- Fear of germs or dirt
- The need for order and symmetry
- Difficulty tolerating uncertainty
- Thoughts about harming yourself or others
- Unwanted, uncontrollable, and unpleasant thoughts
- Fear of shaking hands
- Intense stress
- Doubt about turning off the stove or locking doors
- Fears of contamination after touching objects
Compulsions
- Compulsive cleaning
- Excessive hand washing
- Following strict routines
- Demanding reassurance
- Extreme orderliness and cleanliness
- Repeatedly checking on things
People with OCD have obsessive and compulsive behavior patterns. Extreme cases of OCD can negatively affect your job, school, or interpersonal relationships.
What are the risk factors for OCD?
OCD can happen to anyone, but the following factors put you at risk:
- Family history of OCD
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Tic disorders
- Stressful life events
Complications associated with OCD include relationship problems, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, health problems, and a poor overall quality of life.
How is OCD diagnosed?
To diagnose OCD, Dr. Zafar reviews your symptoms and discusses your medical history. She completes a physical examination and psychiatric evaluation to determine if you suffer from OCD, another mental health disorder, or a combination of both.
How is OCD treated?
Your individualized OCD treatment plan might include:
Medications
Taking certain medications can reduce symptoms, help you better cope with OCD, and improve your overall quality of life.
Psychotherapy
The Axis Psychiatry team takes a biopsychosocial, interdisciplinary approach to counseling — examining the connection between psychology, biology, and social aspects of mental health. They offer cognitive behavioral therapy to teach you coping strategies that help you thrive.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
TMS is an FDA-approved, noninvasive treatment that uses electromagnetic coils and magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in your brain to reduce OCD symptoms.
Don’t live with severe OCD obsessions or compulsions that negatively impact your life. Schedule an appointment with Axis Psychiatry by calling the office or using the online booking tool.
