Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

 
 

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These cycles can significantly disrupt daily life but respond well to evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and, when necessary, medication like SSRIs.

“Living with OCD felt like being trapped in a constant loop of intrusive thoughts and rituals. Therapy has helped me break free, manage my anxiety, and focus on living a more fulfilling, balanced life

Different types of OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) manifests in various forms, reflecting the diversity of obsessions and compulsions individuals experience.

Contamination OCD involves fears of germs or illness, leading to excessive cleaning or handwashing rituals.
Checking OCD is characterized by repetitive checking behaviors, such as ensuring doors are locked or appliances are off, driven by fears of harm.
Symmetry and Ordering OCD causes a need for items to be perfectly aligned or organized, often to reduce discomfort or prevent imagined outcomes.
Intrusive Thoughts OCD involves distressing, unwanted thoughts, often of a violent, sexual, or blasphemous nature, causing guilt or shame.
Hoarding OCD includes difficulty discarding items due to fears of loss or harm.
Relationship OCD focuses on obsessive doubts about relationships, causing significant distress.

These subtypes can overlap, and while symptoms vary, OCD disrupts daily life. Evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and medication can provide significant relief.

Treating OCD involves evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to address intrusive thoughts and compulsions. Combined with medication when needed, this helps patients regain control and improve their quality of life.

Symptoms of OCD

Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) include:

  • Obsessions: Persistent, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges causing distress.
  • Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety from obsessions.
  • Contamination Fears: Excessive worry about germs, dirt, or illness.
  • Checking Rituals: Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or safety measures.
  • Symmetry/Order Obsessions: A need for things to be arranged “just right.”
  • Intrusive Thoughts: Disturbing ideas, often violent, sexual, or blasphemous, causing guilt or shame.
  • Hoarding Behaviors: Difficulty discarding items, even if unnecessary.
  • Excessive Cleaning: Prolonged handwashing or sanitizing rituals.
  • Counting or Mental Repetition: Silent counting or repeating phrases to neutralize distress.
  • Time-Consuming Rituals: Behaviors taking hours of the day.
  • Avoidance: Steering clear of triggers to prevent obsessive thoughts.
  • Distress and Impairment: Significant anxiety disrupting daily life.
  • Unwanted Nature of Obsessions: Recognition that thoughts are excessive or irrational.
  • Heightened Anxiety: Obsessions and compulsions create a cycle of persistent stress.
  • Impaired Relationships or Work: OCD interferes with social and professional responsibilities.

These symptoms are treatable with therapy and, if needed, medication.

Our approach
 

Our approach to treating OCD 

At Bloomfield Health, we provide a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Our primary treatment is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which helps patients confront obsessions while reducing compulsive behaviors. For some, medication such as SSRIs is also recommended to alleviate symptoms. We tailor treatment plans to each individual, ensuring compassionate, effective care. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to address the root causes and maintain long-term improvement. For complex cases, we offer additional therapeutic approaches and care coordination. At Bloomfield Health, we aim to empower patients to regain control and thrive.

 

Frequently asked questions

OCD is a mental health condition involving intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce distress or anxiety.

OCD can result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, including brain chemistry imbalances and stressful life events that trigger or worsen symptoms.

OCD is commonly treated with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), specifically Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and, when necessary, medications like SSRIs to reduce symptoms.

While OCD may not be “cured,” effective treatments help most patients manage symptoms, reduce compulsions, and improve their quality of life significantly.

Medication isn’t always necessary but can be helpful. Many patients benefit from CBT alone, but medication may be recommended for more severe or persistent symptoms.

Treatment duration varies, but many patients notice improvements within 12–16 weeks of starting CBT. Medication often takes 4–6 weeks to show effects.

Yes, OCD can disrupt work, relationships, and daily routines. Effective treatment helps patients regain control and reduce the impact on their lives.

Yes, we provide online therapy and psychiatric consultations, making OCD treatment accessible and convenient, regardless of your location.

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