Living with a mental health disorder is the farthest thing from convenient. This is especially true with a disorder like obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Although OCD diagnoses are most often self-appointed, there are far more individuals who deal with it than they realize. If this is the case, how do you recognize OCD? Also, is there treatment available for those who really struggle?

First City Recovery offers a mental health residential stabilization program and a mental health PHP for individuals dealing with mild to severe mental health issues.

Table of Contents

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that involves intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (known as obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (known as compulsions). Common obsessions include fear of contamination or dirt, excessive doubt, and a need for order. Compulsions can include cleaning, counting, checking and arranging items in a specific way. People with OCD may experience symptoms that interfere with their daily lives and can cause significant distress.

Symptoms of OCD

The primary symptoms of OCD include the following:

Recurrent and persistent thoughts, feelings, ideas, sensations
Behaviors that lead to distress or impairment
Fear of contamination by germs or dirt
Excessive concerns about order and symmetry
Aggressive thoughts towards self or others
Doubts about decisions
Intrusive sexual thoughts
Skin picking
Hoarding

These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with daily activities such as work, school, and relationships. Common types of compulsions include the following:

Repeated checking
Counting or ordering rituals
Cleaning rituals
Demanding reassurance that certain things are true

How Do People Develop OCD?

People develop OCD in different ways, but the condition is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Genetics may play a role in developing OCD as the disorder tends to run in families. The environment can also influence the development of OCD; for instance, stressful life events such as abuse or trauma can trigger symptoms of OCD.

In addition, certain cognitive and behavioral processes can contribute to OCD; for example, some people may develop an exaggerated sense of responsibility or be overly concerned with avoiding mistakes, which can lead to obsessions and compulsions.

Are OCD and OCPD Related?

OCD and OCPD (Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder) are related, but different conditions. People with OCD often have a compulsion to perform certain activities such as washing their hands or checking locks, as well as obsessions such as worrying about germs or harm coming to them. People with OCPD have a different set of symptoms, such as perfectionism and an excessive need to follow rules. They may also have difficulty dealing with change or tasks that require flexibility.

Although OCD and OCPD may have some similar traits, the two disorders differ in their causes, treatment approach, and overall outcomes. People with OCD often respond well to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and/or antidepressant medications.

OCPD, on the other hand, is better treated with psychotherapy that focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors. It is also important to address any underlying issues such as low self-esteem or difficulty dealing with conflict.

What is OCPD?

Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an inflexible adherence to rules, orderliness, and perfectionism. People with OCPD often struggle to find the balance between work and leisure activities, as they prefer to prioritize work over social interaction and other activities. They tend to be overly conscientious, rigid, and detail-oriented, often to the point of being unable to relax or find satisfaction in their accomplishments.

People with OCPD may also struggle with perfectionism, leading to difficulty completing tasks due to fear of not reaching their high standards. They may also be overly focused on adhering to rules and schedules which can lead them to be inflexible and unable to adjust when unexpected changes occur.

Additionally, people with OCPD may display difficulty making decisions, perfectionistic tendencies, and intense feelings of inferiority which can lead to problems in interpersonal relationships. Treatment for OCPD generally involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and/or medications such as SSRIs or mood stabilizers.

Why Do People Misdiagnose Themselves With OCD?

People often misdiagnose themselves with OCD because they mistake normal worries or habits for the signs of an anxiety disorder. Some people may feel that their tendency to worry excessively or perform certain rituals is a sign of OCD, when in reality it’s just a manifestation of heightened stress or anxiety. For instance, some people might consistently check to make sure doors are locked or that nothing was left on the stove but this behavior is not necessarily a sign of OCD.

In addition, many people have difficulty distinguishing between obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which can lead to self-diagnosis of OCD. Obsessive thoughts are defined as intrusive and unwanted ideas or impulses that cause anxiety, while compulsive behaviors are defined as repetitive and ritualistic. It’s important to remember that both obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can be present in varying degrees, or even just one or the other, without it being an indication of OCD.

OCD is a complex disorder that often causes significant distress, so if you think you may be struggling with OCD, it’s important to seek professional help. First City Recovery Center can provide an assessment for OCD and create a treatment plan that works best for you. Treatment options may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, or both; this depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s preferences.

How Many People Have OCD in Indiana?

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, approximately 1.2% of people in Indiana suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. This means that an estimated 125,000 people in Indiana are affected by OCD. OCD can be a debilitating disorder, leading to frequent obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that disrupt day-to-day life.

How Often are Mental Health Disorders Undiagnosed?

Approximately 1 in 40 adults, or 2.3% of the population, live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, many people with OCD have not been diagnosed and are unaware that their symptoms could be a problem. In fact, it is estimated that only around one-third of those with OCD receive treatment, leaving many people living with this disorder undiagnosed and untreated.

The lack of diagnosis and treatment for OCD is concerning because it can have a major impact on an individual’s quality of life. People with OCD often feel isolated, ashamed, and helpless due to their inability to control their intrusive thoughts and compulsions. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Additionally, OCD can interfere with the ability to work or complete everyday tasks.

Mental health disorders can often go undiagnosed because they are not always visible and symptoms may be difficult to recognize. Many people who experience mental health issues are reluctant to seek help due to the stigma associated with mental illness. Unfortunately, this means that mental health disorders often go untreated and can become worse if left unaddressed.

As a result, it is important to recognize the signs of mental health issues and seek help if necessary. A trusted doctor or mental health professional can accurately diagnose a mental health disorder and provide treatment options to help manage symptoms. Early diagnosis often leads to faster recovery, so it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

Is OCD Debilitating?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that causes people to have obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are thoughts, images or impulses that cause distress and anxiety, while compulsions are behaviors or rituals that a person does in order to alleviate the distress caused by their obsession. OCD can be very debilitating for those who suffer from it, as it can significantly interfere with a person’s life.

People with OCD may find that their thoughts and behaviors take up an excessive amount of time and energy, making it difficult to focus on other tasks or activities. This can lead to problems in work, school, relationships and social interactions. Additionally, people with OCD may feel ashamed or embarrassed of their behavior, leading to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.

What is it Like to Have OCD?

Having Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be an incredibly difficult experience. OCD is characterized by intrusive and repetitive thoughts, urges, or images that cause significant distress and interfere with day-to-day life. People with OCD often feel overwhelmed as they struggle to manage these obsessions and compulsions on their own.

A common symptom of OCD is an overwhelming urge to perform rituals or routines in order to relieve anxiety. These compulsions can include excessive washing, counting, checking, or organizing of items. People with OCD may also experience persistent intrusive thoughts that are difficult to ignore and cause distress. Examples of these types of intrusive thoughts may include fear of causing harm to oneself or others, religious guilt, and thoughts about taboo topics.

What sort of Treatment is Available for OCD?

Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication prescribed for OCD typically includes Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or other antidepressants, which help to regulate serotonin levels in the brain.

Psychotherapy is also an important component of treatment for OCD, as it helps patients understand their obsessive thoughts and develop ways to manage them. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most common types of therapy used to treat OCD, as it helps patients recognize their irrational fears and beliefs and challenge them.

Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is another type of therapy that involves gradually exposing the patient to a feared stimulus while learning how to cope with anxiety in a healthy way. Medication and psychotherapy can be effective treatments for OCD, but it is important to remember that recovery takes time and involves developing new habits and ways of thinking. It is important to find a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about the disorder and can provide guidance and support throughout treatment.

OCD Counseling in Kokomo, Indiana

OCD is a difficult mental health disorder to live with. Thankfully, there are treatment options available. At First City Recovery Center, our priority is to treat each person on an individual basis. If you or a loved one would like to find out more, you can contact us here.

Dr. Vahid Osman

MD, Psychiatrist

Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Indianapolis, IN.

Dr. Osman completed a residency at Austin State Hospital. He has over 32 years of experience in Psychiatry & Behavioral Health. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.