Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What is OCD?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic anxiety disorder that disturbs millions of people around the world. This disorder is manifested by repetitive obsessions and compulsions over which an individual has no control. There are different types of OCD, and although it is very important to know how to identify them, it is also necessary to know some strategies that make it possible to face it.

The obsessions that generate OCD are presented in the form of repeated images, thoughts, or impulses. Among the existing types of OCD are the following:

- OCD related to cleanliness: people who suffer from it have obsessions linked to garbage, pollution, etc., which leads them to want to clean or wash excessively and constantly.

- Repair-related OCD: These obsessions have their origin in the need to carry out something "reasonable" or "appropriate" to avoid negative consequences. For this reason, these compulsions may involve repeating certain actions until such time as they feel "right".

- OCD related to the action of checking. The obsessions that are linked to this type of disorder occur because the person believes that he/she has committed some fault or thinks that something negative may happen. For this reason, they repeatedly check, for example, if they have closed a door, if they have turned off a household appliance, etc.

- OCD related to symmetry and order: In this case, the obsession is linked to the person's need to keep everything in a particular symmetry or order. As a result of this need, they tend to organize again and again the objects around them, place or do any action in a totally symmetrical way.

- OCD related to mental rumination: These obsessions involve unwanted thoughts that these people find very difficult to control. An example of these compulsions is repeating phrases or words mentally.

- OCD related to accumulation: For people who suffer from this obsession, accumulating things is based on the belief that, by getting rid of certain objects, something bad will happen. For this reason, they accumulate countless objects, most of the time unnecessary.

- OCD related to counting: This type of obsession implies that the sufferer needs to count things constantly, for example, steps, objects, etc., or to perform a specific number of actions.

- OCD related to hitting or touching: This obsession is based on the individual's fear of harming others.

How can OCD be overcome?

Overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a challenge. However, there are effective alternatives that help to work through the symptoms and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it. An example of this is the following:

- Get informed and learn: Understanding obsessive-compulsive disorders helps to understand how they work. In this way, ways can be found to manage and cope with it.

- Physical exercise: Physical exercise activities positively impact mental and physical health, reducing anxiety and stress levels, which are direct triggers of OCD.

- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is a type of therapy that psychologists often use to work with OCD. Its objective is the identification and modification of unhealthy patterns of behavior and thinking that are linked to the disorder, so if it is used, it can greatly help patients to work on their fears and reduce their compulsions.

- Taking medications recommended by a specialist: There are several antidepressant medications that are effective in reducing the symptoms of OCD, and together with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can produce better results.

- Meditation: Regular practice of meditation is highly recommended to stay in the present moment and observe thoughts without compulsive reactions.

- Establishing routines: This is also an important component of working with OCD. A well-structured routine leads to a sense of predictability and control, which is very comforting to OCD sufferers.

- Social support: Shared experiences with people close to you are very positive. Social support means reducing isolation for OCD sufferers and gaining support in the recovery process.