Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intensely distressing feelings. Compulsions are behaviors or thoughts an individual engages in to attempt to get rid of the obsessions and/or decrease distress or to prevent something bad from happening.
Most people experience unwanted or intrusive thoughts from time to time, and many of us have occasionally checked a door or appliance again even when we were fairly sure it was already taken care of. Having these experiences does not mean someone has “a little OCD.”
Obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD) is diagnosed only when obsessions and compulsions become so intense and persistent that they take up a significant amount of time (typically more than an hour a day), cause marked distress, or interfere with activities that matter to the person. Someone has OCD when these symptoms significantly impair their ability to work, attend school, maintain relationships, or participate fully in their community.
Fear of coming into contact with perceived contaminated substances/things, such as:
Unwanted thoughts or mental images related to sex, including:
Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a type of treatment from behavior therapy that is widely used in the treatment of OCD. It is considered the first-line psychological treatment due to its very strong evidence base and effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving functioning in people with OCD. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people gradually face fears, thoughts, or situations that trigger anxiety—without relying on compulsions or avoidance. Over time, this process teaches the brain that anxiety can rise and fall on its own, reducing the power those fears have. ERP is not about forcing, flooding, or retraumatizing someone, and it does not require eliminating thoughts or seeking constant reassurance. Treatment is collaborative, structured, and paced to support long-term change, not short-term relief.
Psychiatrist on staff, medication reviews as needed/if needed.
Combining ERP with medication is a common treatment plan for many with OCD. The research behind this approach is inconclusive as to whether a combined treatment is better than doing either treatment alone. Clinical experience tells us that a combined approach may be better for people with more severe symptoms and/or comorbid mental health conditions.
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