OCD

What are some symptoms of OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that traps individuals in a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Many people experiencing this condition report feeling as though their lives are out of control.

Symptoms of OCD are divided into two components: obsessions and compulsions. 

Obsessions might include:

• Overwhelming need for order and balance
• Fears of dirt or contamination
• Doubts that you’ve completed safety tasks like turning off the stove
• Unwanted and unpleasant sexual images
• Fear of losing control before harming yourself or others

Compulsions might include:

• Counting or ordering things
• Handwashing until your skin is raw
• Needing to repeat a word, phrase, or prayer
• Adhering to strict routines 
• Checking the stove or other household appliances to be sure they’re off

While everyone experiences occasional thoughts and behaviors like the ones outlined above, people with OCD usually recognize their thoughts and behaviors are not rational. 

How do I know when to seek treatment for OCD?

Left untreated, OCD can cause serious disruption in your daily life. Many people with OCD have difficulty holding a job or maintaining relationships with others. Some become extremely upset about the seemingly endless cycle of obsessive thoughts and the accompanying behaviors. 

Some people find that their OCD symptoms develop slowly and worsen over time. It’s common not to realize how bad things have become until a friend, loved one, or co-worker points out disruptive patterns. 

How can TMS help me manage OCD?

Some people with OCD respond well to psychotherapy. A common approach focuses on learning to identify unhealthy or unproductive thoughts and behaviors and then replace them with healthier ones. 

Another approach involves working with a therapist who will expose you to situations or thoughts that provoke fear to slowly develop tolerance over time. Medication can be helpful but sometimes comes with a risk of side effects. 

For people who haven’t found relief through these methods or for whom drug therapy is not a good option, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has a lot to offer. This non-invasive treatment uses carefully controlled magnetic fields to change how your brain processes stimuli. 

To learn more about these options, reach out to MIU Center online or by phone to book a visit.