What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Everyone double-checks things sometimes. However, people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) cannot help themselves but indulge in repetitive behaviors, do certain rituals over and over, or have repeated unwanted thoughts.
OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by repetitive, ritualized behaviors. These behaviors are triggered by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts (Obsessions) that create an urge to perform a particular activity (Compulsions). The compulsions aim to briefly relieve the anxiety created by the obsessions.
OCD is a medical illness that can have devastating effects on your life, striking men and women in roughly equal numbers.
Recognizing the Symptoms
OCD symptoms include both obsessions and compulsions that significantly interfere with daily life:
Common Obsessions
- Distress over dirt or contamination
- Concern with illness or disease
- A need to keep things orderly or symmetrical
- Aggressive or violent thoughts of harming oneself or others
- Unwanted sexual or religious thoughts
Common Compulsions
- Cleaning or washing repeatedly
- Seeking constant reassurance from others
- Following a strict ritual or routine
- Repeatedly ordering, arranging, checking, or counting
- Avoiding situations that trigger obsessions
What Causes Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
While the exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, research has identified several risk factors that may contribute to its development:
Genetics & Biology
- Genetic predisposition, family history, and differences in brain chemistry and structure.
Environmental Factors
- Stressful or distressing events, such as childhood trauma, can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) at SavantCare
If OCD disrupts your daily functioning, treatment from an experienced clinician can be highly beneficial. Most patients respond well to a combination of approaches.
CBT & ERP Therapy
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is the most effective psychotherapy for OCD, gradually exposing you to fears while preventing compulsive responses.
Medications
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can help balance brain chemistry and reduce obsessive thoughts.
TMS Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an innovative option that can benefit patients who haven't responded well to traditional treatments.
Your Care Team
Our board-certified psychiatrists specialize in treating psychotic disorders with compassion and expertise.
Dr. Bernice Ponce de Leon
DO, Board-Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist | Licensed in CA, NV
View profileWhen Should You Seek Help?
It's important to seek professional help if OCD symptoms interfere with daily life. Seek help when symptoms:
Reach out if you or a loved one experience:
- Take up more than 1 hour per day
- Significantly interfere with work, school, or social activities
- Cause significant distress or anxiety
- Impact relationships with family and friends
- Lead to avoidance of important situations or previously enjoyed activities
Ready to take the next step?
Our team is here to help — no pressure, no judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
People with OCD experience intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause distress. This often leads to repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed in an attempt to reduce the associated anxiety, even when the person recognizes the behaviors may not be helpful.
OCD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional who will assess your symptoms, their impact on your life, and rule out other conditions. There's no single test for OCD.
OCD symptoms can fluctuate over time and may worsen during periods of stress. However, with proper treatment, many people with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms effectively regardless of age.
Sometimes medications can become less effective over time, or side effects may develop. It's important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed.