Question 1

What is OCD?

Accepted Answer

OCD, short for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, is a mental health condition that is characterised by a fixation on irrational thoughts, fears, or urges (called obsessions) and the need to do something about it, resulting in compulsions. These obsessions and compulsions can cause a lot of distress, and it also disrupts your normal life. In OCD, a person might experience a chronic cycle of obsessions & compulsions. Compulsions are involuntary, which means that you have to do it in order to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsession, so you feel compelled to do it. OCD can affect a person from any race or sex. It usually starts manifesting between childhood & young adulthood.

Question 2

What are the signs and symptoms of OCD?

Accepted Answer

OCD is primarily characterised by the following: Obsessions: These are unwanted thoughts, images or urges that are really hard to get rid of. They are typically intrusive and cause a lot of distress. Compulsions These are acts that are done in order to reduce the distress caused by the obsessions. Most people with OCD experience both, but some people may only experience either one of them.

Question 3

What are the types of OCD?

Accepted Answer

OCD can have many types, such as: Checking - This type of OCD causes people to think that something bad might happen to them. To ease this anxiety, they might check on something repeatedly. Contamination - This type of OCD is characterised by a fear of getting dirty or catching a germ. They might clean themselves a lot in order to calm themselves. Mental Contamination - People with this type of OCD might fear that their thoughts are contaminated, causing them to avoid triggering people or situations. Hoarding - This is characterised by a fear of throwing things away. It usually involves a tendency to save useless things or junk. Rumination - This type can cause people to have intrusive thoughts that are negative and have themes like death, sex, etc. Intrusive Thoughts - This type of OCD is characterised by violent intrusive thoughts. It can cause people to avoid triggering situations.

Question 4

What are the causes of OCD?

Accepted Answer

OCD is a mental health condition that can be caused by: Genetic factors: OCD tends to run in families, which means people with family members that have OCD are more likely to be at risk. Trauma: Traumatic experiences like sexual or physical abuse can lead to OCD. Chemical & biological factors: Certain differences in brain structures or hormonal imbalances can also cause OCD. Environmental factors: OCD can also be learned from a person's environment.

Question 5

What is the difference between obsessions and compulsions?

Accepted Answer

OCD is characterised by two major symptoms, obsessions, and compulsions. Compulsions - They are repetitive behaviours that a person might feel forced to do in order to calm their anxiety. Obsessions - These are thoughts that are repetitive, constant and unwanted - they may cause a lot of anxiety and stress. A person with OCD can have both obsessions and compulsions, or just one of the two. The major difference between the two is that obsessions are unwanted thoughts, whereas compulsions are actions done in order to reduce the distress caused by the obsessions.

Question 6

Can I live a normal life with OCD?

Accepted Answer

Yes, while OCD can be challenging, with effective treatment (especially Exposure and Response Prevention therapy and sometimes medication), many individuals learn to manage their symptoms effectively and lead satisfying, productive lives, allowing them to engage in daily activities.

Question 7

Can OCD be cured?

Accepted Answer

Currently, there is no 'cure' for OCD. However, OCD is highly manageable. With consistent and appropriate therapy, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and sometimes medication, symptoms can be reduced, managed, and controlled, allowing for a high quality of life.

Question 8

Which doctor should be consulted for OCD?

Accepted Answer

For OCD, you should consult a psychiatrist or a psychologist/therapist specialising in OCD. A psychiatrist can diagnose, prescribe medication, and provide therapy. A psychologist or therapist, especially one trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), will be crucial for the most effective form of therapy. Often, a collaborative approach involving both is beneficial.

Question 9

Does online therapy work for OCD?

Accepted Answer

Yes, online therapy, particularly online Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) delivered by a qualified and licensed therapist, is highly effective for OCD. It can offer convenient and accessible treatment.

Question 10

Can I treat OCD myself?

Accepted Answer

While self-help resources can be helpful, it is generally not recommended to treat OCD only by yourself, especially if symptoms are severe. OCD requires specialised therapeutic techniques like ERP, which are best guided by a trained mental health professional. Attempting to self-treat without proper guidance can sometimes worsen symptoms or lead to ineffective strategies.

Build A Better Life With The Right Treatment For OCD