Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. OCD can significantly interfere with daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall well-being.

What Does OCD Feel Like?

OCD creates a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, leading to distress and difficulty controlling one’s actions. Common symptoms include:

✔ Obsessions – Recurrent, intrusive thoughts, fears, or urges that cause anxiety, such as:

  • Fear of contamination or germs
  • Unwanted, distressing thoughts about harm or violence
  • Excessive concerns about symmetry, order, or perfectionism
  • Doubts about locking doors, turning off appliances, or making mistakes

✔ Compulsions – Repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed to relieve anxiety, such as:

  • Excessive handwashing or cleaning
  • Repeated checking of locks, appliances, or personal items
  • Counting, tapping, or repeating words silently
  • Arranging objects in a precise order

These compulsions offer temporary relief but reinforce the OCD cycle, making symptoms worse over time.

Why Is It Important to Treat OCD?

When left untreated, OCD can become severe and debilitating, leading to:

✔ Increased anxiety and emotional distress
✔ Avoidance of certain situations or social withdrawal
✔ Impaired daily functioning at work, school, or home
✔ Higher risk of depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts

Treatment Options for OCD

OCD treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and alternative approaches to help manage symptoms:

✔ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Specifically, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the most effective therapy for OCD. It helps patients confront fears without engaging in compulsive behaviors.
✔ Medication – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine or sertraline can help reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsions.
✔ Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) – A non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that targets brain regions involved in OCD to reduce symptoms.
✔ Lifestyle Modifications – Regular exercise, stress management techniques, and mindfulness can complement other treatments.

How TMS Can Help With OCD

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a drug-free, non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain associated with OCD symptoms. TMS is especially beneficial for individuals with treatment-resistant OCD who have not responded well to traditional therapies.

Benefits of TMS for OCD:

✔ FDA-approved for OCD treatment
✔ Non-invasive with no need for medication
✔ Minimal to no side effects
✔ Long-lasting symptom relief
✔ Can be used alongside therapy and other treatments

To learn more about how TMS can help OCD click here.

Find the Right OCD Treatment for You

Finding the right psychiatrist is important. At Bleyan General and Integrative Psychiatry, we take a holistic, evidence-based approach to treating OCD. We offer ERP therapy, medication management, and innovative TMS therapy to help you regain control and live free from intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

If OCD is affecting your life, contact us today to explore personalized treatment options and take the first step toward relief and recovery.