Few disorders can be as exhausting as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more common than many people realize, and for those afflicted with OCD, basic everyday tasks can become insurmountable. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a chronic condition that, left untreated, can cause a lifetime of problems. OCD is characterized by uncontrollable, repetitive thoughts (the “obsessive” in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) as well as uncontrollable behaviors (the “compulsive” in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Unrelenting intrusive thoughts, referred to as obsessions, coupled with the powerful compulsions for compensatory behaviors can be emotionally all consuming.
Individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder may have obsessive symptoms, compulsive symptoms, or both. Obsessive symptoms are typically intrusive thoughts, urges, or mental imagery that result in severe anxiety for the sufferer. Examples of obsessive symptoms include:
Compulsive symptoms are repetitious behaviors that those who suffer from OCD feel compelled to do as the result of their obsessive thoughts. Examples of compulsions include:
Individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder find it very difficult to function and generally experience a poor quality of life. The good news is that condition is treatable with the correct combination of medications and psychotherapy. People with OCD who participate in the proper therapies and maintain a stable medication regimen usually see a significant decrease or cessation in obsessive and compulsive symptoms. Certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) have a clinical track record of success when used to treat OCD. It is important to discuss medication options with a psychiatrist who has experience in treating OCD specifically; often times patients are placed on medications solely for anxiety that can exacerbate obsessive compulsive symptoms in the long run.
There are also multiple effective psychotherapeutic approaches for treating OCD. Effective psychotherapies for OCD include some forms or exposure therapy, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), two therapeutic modalities offered at Dr. Rodriguez’s center in Delray Beach, Florida. Dr. Rodriguez and his team are not only experienced in treating both moderate and severe OCD, but are also adept at treating OCD when it is combined with other mental health issues, such as substance use disorder or PTSD. In addition to individual therapy and psychiatry, Dr. Rodriguez offers deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS) Therapy at his brain science center, specifically for treatment-resistant OCD.