Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) causes repetitive behaviors and/or thoughts. People who have OCD may not see changes in their own behavior. MaineHealth provides effective treatment for OCD.
What is obsessive compulsive disorder?
OCD is a behavioral health condition that causes a person to have the same thoughts or behaviors over and over again. OCD can affect quality of life and physical health.
OCD risk factors
The exact cause of obsessive compulsive disorder is unknown. Genetic, biological and environmental factors may play a hand in OCD development. People can develop OCD at any age, though it is most commonly diagnosed during childhood or adolescence.
More about OCD
OCD affects everyone differently. Some specific symptoms of OCD include:
-
Needing things to be symmetrical or in perfect order
-
Fear of germs or contamination
-
Excessive cleaning
-
Repeating tasks already done
-
Ordering and arranging things in precise ways
-
Checking on things repeatedly
-
Trouble controlling thoughts and behaviors
-
Tic disorders
-
Fear of doing something wrong
-
Intrusive thoughts about something bad happening to oneself or others
Your health care provider will talk with your about symptoms to determine obsessions, compulsions or both. Physical examination and tests may be conducted to rule out other issues that may cause OCD symptoms.
Treatment for OCD
- Psychotherapy and talk therapy can help patients work through their obsessions.
- Patients may undergo supervised exposure to situations that stress them and practice not responding with their compulsive behaviors; this helps them learn how to tolerate anxiety without acting on compulsions.
- Medication can help reduce obsessions and compulsions.
Patients can experience relapses if they stop taking their medication before they are fully treated. Consult your health care provider if you miss a dose or believe you no longer need medication.
MaineHealth cares about your physical and mental health
Counseling, therapy and other behavioral health services are available at most MaineHealth primary care practices. Contact your primary care provider for more information.
