Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Overview
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that trigger intensely distressing feelings. These obsessions are often followed by repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform in an attempt to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. OCD can affect people of all ages, including teenagers.
Signs & Symptoms
- Contamination: Fear of germs, dirt, or illness.
- Losing control: Fear of harming oneself or others.
- Perfectionism: Need for things to be symmetrical or in perfect order.
- Unwanted sexual thoughts: Distressing sexual thoughts or images.
- Religious obsessions: Concerns about blasphemy or sinning.
- Harm: Fear of something terrible happening (fire, burglary).
- Excessive cleaning and washing: Repeated handwashing, showering, or cleaning.
- Checking: Repeatedly checking things (locks, appliances, homework).
- Counting: Counting in specific patterns or to a certain number.
- Ordering and arranging: Arranging objects in a precise way.
- Mental compulsions: Repeating words silently, praying, or reviewing events to prevent harm.
- Hoarding: Difficulty discarding possessions.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact causes of OCD are unknown, but research suggests a combination of factors:
- Genetics: A family history of OCD increases risk.
- Brain structure and function: Differences in brain circuits involved in fear and anxiety.
- Environmental factors: Stressful life events, trauma, or infections may trigger or worsen OCD.
How OCD Might Look in Teens
- Academic struggles: OCD can interfere with schoolwork due to difficulty concentrating, perfectionism, or the need to perform rituals.
- Social difficulties: Teens with OCD may avoid social situations due to fear of contamination or embarrassment about their compulsions.
- Family conflicts: OCD can cause tension within families due to the time-consuming nature of rituals or disagreements about accommodations.
- Secrecy and shame: Teens may try to hide their OCD symptoms due to embarrassment or fear of judgment.
Treatment
- Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specific type of CBT that is highly effective for OCD. It involves gradually confronting feared situations and resisting compulsions.
- Medication: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and other medications can help reduce anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
- Family involvement: Educating family members about OCD and involving them in treatment can be beneficial.
- Support groups: Connect with others who have OCD to share experiences and support.
A List of Teen Mental Health Issues We Treat at Sullivan & Associates
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Learn More About Emotion RegulationLearn About AngerLearn About Behavioural IssuesLearn About Self-Harm
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that trigger intensely distressing feelings. These obsessions are often followed by repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform in an attempt to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. OCD can affect people of all ages, including teenagers.
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Learn More About Relationship IssuesLearn About Family IssuesLearn About Teasing and Bullying
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