Mercy Options Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Myths Mental illness is not: Hopeless Something to fear Untreatable Something you have to justify to others A personal deficit Weakness Failure Something to be ashamed about Something you have to go through alone
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What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? Uncontrollable, persistent, disturbing and unwelcome thoughts and images. An urgent and uncontrollable need to engage in certain rituals. Overwhelming anxiety and fear. These are things that obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) are made of. People with OCD are plagued by persistent, recurring and unwelcome thoughts (obsessions) that reflect exaggerated anxiety or fears. These individuals develop the urgent need to engage in certain rituals (compulsions) to prevent or temporarily relieve themselves of these obsessions. There is no pleasure in these rituals, only temporary relief from the anxiety that grows when the person doesn’t perform them. While most of us can identify with making sure our stove is turned off once or twice before we leave the house, people with OCD are consumed with the task and find it so distressing that it interferes with daily life. Most people with OCD recognize the senselessness of their behavior but feel unable to stop it. OCD is one of several anxiety disorders that plagues approximately 19 million American adults. Of the 3.3 million people with OCD, one-third report having experienced their first symptoms as children. Evidence suggests OCD runs in families and affects men and women equally.
Common OCD Scenarios Include: • A germ or dirt obsession that compels one to wash one’s hands repeatedly • A feeling of doubt that forces a need to check things over and over • Frequent thoughts of violence • A fear of harming close friends and family • Long periods of touching or counting things • Preoccupation with order and symmetry • Persistent thoughts of performing repugnant sexual acts • Troubling thoughts that go against personal religious beliefs
Symptoms of OCD The course of OCD is variable. Symptoms and scenarios may come and go, they may ease over time, or they may grow progressively worse.
People with OCD Can Also Experience: • Depression • Other anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, social phobia or post-traumatic stress disorder • Eating disorders • Avoidance of situations that may force them to confront their obsessions • Use of alcohol or drugs as calming agents
Treatment of ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder OCD generally responds well to treatment with medications and/or therapy. A visit to your mental health provider or family physician is needed to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Steps to Help Yourself Do your best to remain active – Choose an activity you enjoy and make it part of your regular routine. Avoid being alone too much – Seek out family and friends you can talk to and who will listen. Do not set difficult goals or take on added responsibility – Break larger tasks into smaller ones that you can accomplish. Avoid making major life decisions – Try taking it one day at a time. Go easy on yourself – Don’t expect too much, too fast. Treat yourself with kindness and respect. Follow your doctor’s orders – Take your medication as prescribed, eat right and keep your appointments.