What is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform to alleviate anxiety. The obsessions and compulsions often cause significant distress, consume a significant amount of time, and interfere with daily functioning.
Who is affected by OCD?
OCD affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. it typically begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. It is estimated that approximately 2-3% of the population will experience OCD during their lifetime. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of OCD include genetics (e.g., having a first-degree relative with OCD increases one’s chance of developing this disorder), neurobiology (e.g., imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, play a role in OCD), environmental factors (e.g., traumatic events such as abuse or significant stress can contribute to the worsening of OCD), and personality traits (e.g., perfectionism, high levels of anxiety, or a history of frequent worrying may increase the risk of developing OCD).
What are some case examples of someone who suffers from OCD?
Case Study 1: Mild OCD
Brianna is a 15-year-old student who experiences frequent intrusive thoughts about contamination. To cope with her fears, she washes her hands repeatedly. The symptoms are mild and cause some interference in her daily life, but she can still engage in her activities.
Case Study 2: Moderate OCD
Sergi is a 32-year-old office worker. He spends a significant amount of time each day organizing and arranging objects in his home and office to ensure symmetry and alignment. He feels anxious and distressed when things are not in ‘perfect’ order. These rituals take up a considerable amount of time and prevent him from focusing on his work and relationships.
Case Study 3: Severe OCD
Evelynn is a 40-year-old woman who experiences intrusive, distressing thoughts of harming herself or her loved ones. To alleviate anxiety and prevent harm, she engaged in lengthy and elaborate rituals involving counting, checking, and repeating phrases. these rituals consume several hours daily, making it difficult for Evelynn to hold a job or maintain relationships. Her life is significantly impaired by OCD symptoms, leading to severe distress and impairment in daily functioning.
Please note that names have been changed to protect anonymity.
To learn more about how we treat OCD
At IH Psychotherapy, our compassionate and holistic approach to OCD is rooted in empathy, understanding, and non-judgmental support. We strive to help clients manage their OCD symptoms, reduce their compulsive behaviours, and improve their quality of life.