OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes you to have obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that can disrupt your daily routine and your overall quality of life. If you have signs of OCD, such as constantly checking on things or washing your hands repetitively, reach out to the Guiding Balance team in Patchogue, New York. They have the expertise to diagnose and treat OCD and provide effective solutions. Request an appointment by calling the practice during office hours.

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate the distress caused by these obsessions. OCD can significantly disrupt your daily life, causing distress and impairing your functionality.

What are the symptoms of OCD?

Symptoms of OCD include:

Obsessions

These are persistent, unwanted, and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly invade your mind. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harming others, or doubts about safety.

Compulsions

To ease the anxiety that comes from obsessions, individuals with OCD engage in ritualistic behaviors or mental acts. These compulsions are often excessive, time-consuming, and may not be connected to the feared event. For example, repetitive hand-washing or checking locks repeatedly.

Need for precision

A strong need for exactness, symmetry, or perfection is often present in OCD. People may feel compelled to arrange objects meticulously or perform tasks with extreme precision.

Avoidance

Individuals with OCD may go to great lengths to avoid situations or triggers that provoke their obsessions. This avoidance can limit social, work, and daily life activities.

Distress and impairment

OCD is typically associated with significant emotional distress and can severely impact your ability to function normally. It can interfere with relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

If you identify with any of these symptoms, call the Guiding Balance team for an appointment for an evaluation.

How is OCD diagnosed?

To diagnose OCD, the Guiding Balance team performs a comprehensive assessment that involves learning about your symptoms, their duration, and how they impact your daily life.

They also gather information about your medical history and your family’s history of mental health issues, and they perform psychological assessments and standardized questionnaires to evaluate the severity and specific features of your OCD.

In addition, your practitioner ensures that your symptoms aren’t due to other mental health disorders or medical conditions that can mimic OCD.

How is OCD treated?

OCD is treatable, and several effective approaches are available, such as:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Medications
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Support groups
• Lifestyle changes

OCD varies in severity and presentation. However, early intervention and ongoing support can lead to significant improvement in managing symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Request an appointment by calling the friendly staff today to learn more.