There’s a lot of misinformation and stereotypes out there about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. OCD is not just a personality quirk or a character trait. It’s a mental health condition that can cause individuals to experience intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and engage in repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) in an attempt to alleviate their anxiety. However, these behaviors end up adding to the anxiety, amplifying both the obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions that define OCD.
obsessive compulsive disorder
OCD can be particularly distressing because it often targets the things that we love and value most, like our relationships, faith, and homes. For example, individuals with OCD may have obsessions about causing harm to loved ones, which can lead to compulsions such as constantly checking on them or avoiding them altogether. Other obsessions could include unwanted sexual, religious, or morality related thoughts, responsibility, cleanliness, and making things “just right.'
If you are experiencing these intrusive thoughts and behaviors, you may feel like your own mind is working against you. The distress caused by OCD can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety, which can be debilitating and prevent you from living the life you want to have.
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Greenhouse’s approach also integrates techniques from ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based modalities to support you in managing your symptoms through healthy coping skills.
This doesn’t have to be your story forever. Exposure and Response Prevention therapy can help you face your fears and learn to trust that your anxiety will lessen without compulsive behaviors. By choosing to practice tolerating anxiety instead of immediately acting on compulsions, you can train your brain to perceive obsessive thoughts as less threatening. This shift in mindset leads to two positive outcomes: First, you'll discover that you're capable of managing distress without resorting to compulsive behavior. Secondly, as your anxiety decreases, so too will your compulsion to act on your thoughts
But there is hope
