Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Understanding OCD: Symptoms, Causes, and How Treatment Can Help

What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by a pattern of unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform in order to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening.

These obsessions and compulsions can take up a significant amount of time and interfere with daily life, relationships, and work.

Common examples include excessive handwashing due to fear of germs, repeatedly checking things for safety, or needing items to be arranged in a particular order.

Person thoughtfully arranging items, illustrating common behaviors associated with OCD in a respectful manner.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Symptoms

  • OCD Behavioral Symptoms

    • Excessive handwashing or cleaning

    • Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or switches

    • Arranging items in a specific, rigid order

    • Counting or repeating actions to a specific number

    • Avoidance of situations that trigger obsessions

    • Seeking constant reassurance from others

    • Spending excessive time on rituals

    • Intrusive thoughts or images causing distress

    • Compulsive hoarding or difficulty discarding items

    • Repeatedly questioning decisions or actions

  • OCD Physical Symptoms

    • Chapped or raw skin from excessive washing

    • Fatigue from spending hours on compulsive behaviors

    • Tension headaches or muscle aches

    • Gastrointestinal discomfort from stress or anxiety

    • Shortness of breath during obsessive episodes

    • Increased heart rate or palpitations

    • Sweating or clammy hands

    • Restlessness or physical agitation

    • Sleep disturbances due to intrusive thoughts

    • Physical exhaustion from mental strain

Medication Management for OCD

How Medication Can Help:

  • Decrease the intensity and frequency of obsessive thoughts.

  • Reduce the urge to perform compulsive rituals.

  • Improve focus and overall mental clarity.

Medication Management Options for OCD:

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors):

First-line medications for OCD.

Clomipramine (Anafranil):

A tricyclic antidepressant that’s also effective for OCD when SSRIs alone are not sufficient.

Augmentation Options:

In some cases, additional medications such as low-dose antipsychotics (e.g., aripiprazole or risperidone) may be added to enhance results.

Other medications:

Depending on your specific needs, we may consider additional options for anxiety, mood stabilization, or sleep support.

At Skye Mental Health, medication management is never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to listen, monitor your progress, and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible results. Healing is a process, and we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.