Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common yet serious mental health condition that affects millions of people. With approximately 1 in 40 individuals experiencing OCD at some point in their lives, the need for effective, personalized care is critical. If you or someone you care about is struggling with obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, know that help is available—and effective treatment can make a real difference.
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD stands for obsessive-compulsive disorder, a mental health disorder that was formerly classified as an anxiety disorder. Today, the DSM-5 defines OCD under a new category of “Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders.” OCD receives its name by having symptoms of both obsessions and compulsions, which go hand-in-hand. Together, they span both mental and behavioral symptoms. To elaborate, obsessions are intrusive, uncontrollable, and repetitive thinking patterns that cause anxiety or distress. Their presence pushes the person to try to overcome their fears by following repetitive actions (called compulsions). One characteristic of the disorder is the belief that following compulsions will help alleviate obsessions, but without proper help, symptoms don’t go away on their own.
People of any age and background can develop OCD. Markedly, it develops based on varied combinations of factors, including genetics, environment, and personality/behavioral elements. Most commonly, the disorder appears in childhood (between 7-12) and during late teenage years. As noted, obsessive-compulsive disorder is a fairly prevalent disorder, with approximately 8.2 million people in the United States having the condition. Unfortunately, less than 8.2 million people receive treatment for their symptoms, for a number of reasons. On the one hand, it can be difficult to understand where to turn when you have OCD. Further, there are barriers to care, including negative stigma. Let’s discuss some of the wrong ideas about OCD.
Common Misconceptions About OCD
Although OCD is a common disorder, there are plenty of unfortunate misconceptions about it. This can lead people to misunderstand the disorder and prevent people getting the help they need. Let’s debunk a few misleading beliefs about OCD.
For one thing, people often oversimplify and overgeneralize the idea of OCD. They may think of it as a condition marked by cleanliness, neatness, organization, and symmetry. In reality, OCD presents itself in people as different subtypes, or themes. Thus, a person can have OCD that is focused around contamination, harm, taboos, etc. (which are all common OCD themes). There’s no one look of OCD and it can be an invisible illness since people are often good at hiding their symptoms.
I is often believed that individuals can turn off their OCD at will. This is far from the truth. OCD obsessions and compulsions cause individuals extreme stress, anxiety, and strain. When OCD symptoms aren’t managed, they can hinder all areas of a person’s wellness.
Lastly, people who don’t have OCD might not understand the invisible symptoms. Much of OCD occurs within the person who has the condition. Both the obsessions and compulsions they struggle with can be internal mental difficulties that trap them in an isolating place.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of OCD?
As mentioned, OCD can manifest in different ways due to specific subtypes and other personal factors. Each person’s experience of having the disorder can widely vary from others. However, here are some potential indicators of obsessive-compulsive disorder:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Anxiety
- Racing thoughts
- Perfectionism
- Performing repetitive behaviors
- Completing mental and behavioral rituals
- Feelings of powerlessness
- Losing time to obsessions and compulsions
- Avoidant behaviors
- Cancelling plans due to obsession/compulsion rituals
- Feelings of guilt
- Self-doubts
- Fear of doing things you don’t want to (i.e., hurting others, saying rude things)
These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with daily life. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors—like washing your hands excessively—that individuals feel driven to perform to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic but treatable condition. People with OCD often struggle with shame, isolation, and fear, but effective interventions exist.
Across the U.S., including right here in Nevada at Vogue Recovery Center, individuals can access high-quality, research-based OCD treatment. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or actively searching for the right program, this article will guide you through the treatment approaches that can help reduce symptoms and restore balance. Relief is possible—and a more manageable, fulfilling life is within reach. Keep reading to learn how.
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What Is OCD Treatment Like?
Treatment of OCD typically involves a combination of talking therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), is the most common and effective form of treating OCD. Medications like serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help regulate brain chemistry and reduce symptoms. In severe cases, options like transcranial magnetic stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be considered. Research supported by the National Institute of Mental Health and ongoing clinical trials from major institutions like the School of Medicine continue to expand our understanding of what causes OCD and how best to treat it. If you’re seeking help, it’s important to request an appointment with a qualified medical professional. Many providers offer financial assistance and support outlined in their accessibility statements and notice of privacy practices.
Inpatient Treatment for OCD
Inpatient treatment refers to OCD residential treatment, where guests live at Vogue Recovery for a duration of days or weeks. In this early stage of care, you will receive 24/7 care from our staff, as you’ll enjoy chef-prepared meals, sleep, and attend sessions. For many people, inpatient treatment is a much-needed getaway where they can prioritize their health and learn to take back control. However, for anyone who can’t make the commitment to live in-center, we offer outpatient treatment.
Outpatient Treatment for OCD
Outpatient treatment is a level of care where individuals attend frequent sessions at Vogue Recovery but return home each night. Thus, it is a more flexible option for those who have other obligations. Additionally, some of our guests first work through inpatient treatment before transitioning into outpatient as a more independent stage. The goals of both inpatient and outpatient rehab are the same, but the method is based on your needs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for OCD
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a psychotherapy technique that is beneficial for people with a vast range of issues. As a mental health treatment method, it is also research-based for OCD. In fact, it’s recommended as a first-line treatment response due to its efficacy for OCD. By focusing on how one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are related and causing connected harm, CBT helps individuals overcome obsessions and compulsions. Thus, we offer cognitive behavioral therapy as a key element of psychotherapy for OCD.
Exposure and Response Therapy
Another treatment technique for OCD is exposure and response prevention therapy. Gradual exposure to fears is part of CBT’s programming, but ERP focuses specifically on this method of healing. Because ERP is part of CBT, most individuals are recommended to work through cognitive behavioral therapy as a whole. Notably, in ERP guests create an exposure plan to progressively practice not giving in to their obsessions and compulsions. Through exposure therapy, individuals realize they aren’t controlled by their symptoms and can choose to ignore them.
Medication
Medication works in tandem with psychotherapy to truly alleviate symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Most commonly, a form of anti-depressants called SSRIs are first prescribed for OCD because they increase serotonin for symptom improvements. However, there are different medication options that you will work with your therapist to determine.
The Importance of OCD Treatment Programs
Although you may believe you have your disorder under control, OCD treatment programs are important and life-changing. Having a mental health issue is never as simple as a lack of willpower or strength. Therefore, it’s not possible to simply override or outgrow it. The longer you avoid your issues, the more you will hurt. Plus, mental health disorders affect more than the person diagnosed but also their loved ones. OCD recovery programming matters because it makes a positive difference in whole family units. Individuals learn to overcome their disorder by managing their obsessions and compulsions. Through treatment, they gain the ability to resist their symptoms so they’re back in charge of their lives.
If you’re ready to conquer obsessive-compulsive disorder, reach out to our team at Vogue Recovery center. They’re ready to prepare a spot for you!
Finding Help for OCD
If you or a loved one is struggling with obsessions and compulsions or showing signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you’re not alone—and effective help is available. Obsessive compulsive disorder, as outlined in the Manual of Mental Disorders, is a serious but treatable condition. Whether you’re dealing with severe OCD, co-occurring personality disorder, or other mental health conditions, our team of compassionate mental health professionals can guide you through a personalized treatment plan. Prioritize your physical health and mental health care today.
It can be frightening when someone you love has a condition like obsessive-compulsive disorder. Although you want to help, a lot of what they’re going through occurs in their head and isn’t accessible or understandable for you. It’s important they receive quality care from a professional who is trained to improve their situation. Not only does OCD treatment allow people to get control over their symptoms, it also opens up new opportunities that their symptoms were limiting before.
We truly want to help the people you love experience a high quality of life. We guarantee tailored mental health programming that is person-focused and specific to each guest. Close by in Las Vegas is Vogue Recovery Center, a privatized treatment center with comfortable living spaces and knowledgeable staff. Please reach out to us to get started seeking help for OCD. It’s never too late to prioritize your health with professional OCD treatment!
