Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be overwhelming, but with the right support, effective treatment is possible. If you or someone you care about is experiencing the distressing symptoms of OCD, professional treatment is often the key to recovery. Taking action is important, and help is available.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition that affects many people across all age groups. OCD causes a cycle of unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can interfere with daily life.
It’s important to note that OCD is not simply about being neat or organized, as is commonly misunderstood. The symptoms of OCD can be intense and require professional care. At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we specialize in providing evidence-based treatment to help those suffering from OCD regain control of their lives.
Signs of OCD can vary, but common indicators include:
OCD can appear in childhood or later in life. In children, the disorder often shows up as compulsions like counting or repeating behaviors. Adults, on the other hand, are more likely to have intrusive thoughts or specific rituals.
Despite these differences, the underlying symptoms of OCD can be similar across all ages. Early treatment is critical for managing OCD in both children and adults.
While the exact cause of OCD is still unclear, several factors contribute to its development. Genetics often play a role, as OCD tends to run in families. Additionally, abnormalities in brain chemistry can contribute to the disorder. External factors like trauma may also increase the risk of developing OCD.
OCD can run in families, and individuals with a family history of the disorder may be more likely to experience it themselves.
Stressful environments, particularly in childhood, can trigger the onset of OCD symptoms in some individuals.
Some research suggests that changes in brain chemistry can cause OCD. Serotonin abnormalities, in particular, may play a key role in its development.
Experiencing a traumatic life event, such as the death of a loved one, can sometimes lead to the development of OCD symptoms.
OCD symptoms generally fall into two categories: obsessions and compulsions. These symptoms can cause significant distress and interfere with day-to-day activities.
Treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder focuses on helping patients manage these symptoms through a combination of therapy and, sometimes, medication. The goal is to break the OCD cycle and reduce the impact of these distressing thoughts and behaviors.
Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images that cause anxiety. Common obsessions in OCD include fears of contamination, fear of harm, or a need for order or exactness. These thoughts are persistent and often distressing.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts. These are usually done to try to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions. Common compulsions in OCD include excessive hand washing, checking locks repeatedly, or counting items in a particular order.
Getting a formal diagnosis of OCD is the first step toward treatment. At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we use a comprehensive approach to diagnosing OCD. Our mental health professionals perform thorough assessments to understand the person’s symptoms. We want to know what is happening and how it impacts their life. From there, we create a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
During the initial assessment, our team will test the individual’s symptoms and discuss how they’ve been managing them. This helps in forming a clear diagnosis.
Once diagnosed, we work with the patient to develop an OCD treatment plan. We use a combination of behavioral health therapies, medication, and support tailored to their unique needs.
Many individuals with OCD also experience other mental health conditions. These co-occurring conditions can complicate the disorder, making a dual-diagnosis treatment plan vital. At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we assess for any comorbidities during the diagnostic phase. This ensures that we take a holistic approach to treatment.
Some of the most common co-occurring disorders with OCD include:
At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we specialize in evidence-based therapies to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care through proven methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication management. These treatments are designed to help you break the OCD cycle and regain control over your thoughts and behaviors.
CBT, specifically Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is the most effective therapy for OCD. We help people face their fears safely while reducing compulsive behaviors.
For some individuals, medication is necessary to manage the symptoms of OCD. Our team carefully monitors medication plans to ensure they are working effectively alongside therapy.
At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we provide a flexible approach to OCD treatment. Our programs are designed to fit your unique needs, whether you need intensive support or more manageable, ongoing care.
Our mental health outpatient program allows you to receive the right treatment while still living at home. This outpatient care provides the chance to work through your OCD symptoms in real-life situations with professional support.
Our outpatient mental health program focuses on helping you manage OCD symptoms while continuing your daily activities. You’ll attend regular therapy sessions that fit into your daily schedule. This program is great for people who are able to live at home but need structured therapy to manage their OCD.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward managing your OCD, Aftermath Behavioral Health is here to help. Our evidence-based therapies, compassionate care, and experienced team offer the support you need to break free from the OCD cycle. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique situation, helping you regain control.
Don’t wait—reach out to us today or call (781) 410-4094 to start your journey to recovery.
OCD affects about 2% of the population. It is more common than people think and can impact both children and adults. Early treatment is important for managing symptoms.
Yes, treatment for OCD is highly effective. Many people experience significant improvements through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication.
The most effective treatment options for OCD include cognitive-behavioral therapy, especially exposure and response prevention (ERP), and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs).
Yes, medication can play a key role in managing OCD symptoms. SRIs are the most commonly prescribed medications and have been shown to reduce the severity of obsessions and compulsions.
The length of OCD treatment varies depending on the individual. Many people start to see improvement after 12 to 16 weeks of therapy or medication, but some may need ongoing support.
