Every single one of us experiences intrusive, strange, and obsessive thoughts. While most people immediately erase these thoughts out of their memory, people with an obsessive-compulsive disorder or commonly known as OCD, unintentionally store them until they get overwhelmed. Why does their brain work this way? Could there be any causes that trigger their compulsive behaviors?
Risk Factors for Developing OCD
Research suggests that the symptoms of OCD may involve communication errors among the front part and the deeper structures of the brain. Even with this neurobiological basis, research has not been able to definitively point out the causes of OCD. However, behavioral, cognitive, and environmental factors may bring about the disorder in an individual at a particular point in his or her life.
OCD Compulsions
While researchers are still looking for what really causes the disorder, there are symptoms that indicate that a person has OCD. These symptoms are referred to as a compulsion—an intense urge to do something. Common compulsions include:
- excessive cleaning of the house, food, and other things that the person has;
- excessive checking of locks, electrical and gas appliances, and some other things associated with safety;
- substance abuse;
- hoarding;
- needless shopping;
- too much exercising;
- handwashing, tooth brushing, and showering; and
- constant need of reassurance by asking so many questions.
Ways to Cope with OCD
To overcome these compulsive behaviors, you need to take note of your thinking patterns and work with the anxiety of your thoughts. When you are terribly upset by some disturbing thoughts, practice ritualising to slowly turn your emotions down. Also, implement some changes in your daily, habitual behaviors. This will help you accept, rather than resist, your obsessive thoughts. OCD may be treatable, but it needs hard work so start with these simple steps.
However, when things get extremely overwhelming that it already interferes with your daily life, it is best to seek mental health counselling services. Qualified therapists who are trained in the cognitive-behavioral methods are the best people to help you cope with these compulsive behaviors. At the very least, they can provide a proper diagnosis and outline a treatment plan.
The safest place to seek mental health counselling service is Strength & Strategies Counselling Services. Our service is available to those who are looking for help on the Sunshine Coast. So if you need help, please feel free to book an appointment and give us a call at 0423 595 716. We always do our best to help our clients deal with the compulsions they feel.
The cycle of your compulsive behavior can be stopped, so take the first step now!