Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
You often think about things you don't really want to think about. You doubt whether you locked the door or turned off the gas. You have to constantly check, repeat, or do things in a certain way. If you don't, you feel anxious or tense. These actions take a lot of time and energy and affect your daily life.
In brief
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition in which you suffer from obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. You often know that these thoughts are excessive, but you find it difficult to stop them. Treatment consists of psychotherapy, sometimes supplemented with medication and self-care.
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?
With obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you suffer from recurring thoughts (obsessions) and/or actions (compulsions). Obsessive thoughts can include, for example, "If I don't do this, something bad will happen." Compulsive actions include, for example, constantly washing your hands, checking things, or counting.
These compulsions are neither enjoyable nor useful, but you engage in them to reduce anxiety or tension. They provide temporary relief, but in the long term they perpetuate the symptoms. An obsessive-compulsive disorder can have a major impact on your daily functioning.
Causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The exact cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder is unknown, but several factors may play a role:
- Hereditary predisposition: Obsessive-compulsive disorders are more common within families.
- Psychological factors: People who are perfectionists, have a need for control, or are prone to anxiety are at greater risk.
- Biological factors: Changes in brain areas responsible for anxiety and behavior may contribute.
- Stressful events: For example, illness, loss, or tension can exacerbate or trigger obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Treatment
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is highly treatable. Your practitioner will work with you to determine which form of treatment is most suitable.
Psychotherapy
The first choice is usually cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in combination with exposure and response prevention (ERP). This involves learning, step by step, to face compulsive situations without performing the actions. You learn to think differently about the compulsive thoughts and experience that nothing serious happens if you omit the compulsive ritual.
Medication
Medication is sometimes used, especially if therapy alone is not sufficiently effective. This often involves SSRIs (a type of antidepressant). These can help to reduce the intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
Lifestyle advice and self-management (self-care)
A structured daily routine, sufficient rest, exercise, and relaxation contribute to reducing symptoms. Avoiding stressful situations and practicing letting go of control can also help.
Psychoeducation
You will receive an explanation of what obsessive-compulsive disorder is, how it works, and what you can do yourself to manage your symptoms. Loved ones can also be involved in this process, so that they can better understand what is going on and how they can provide support.