Managing OCD - Hana Bhanas

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD is a disorder where individuals may experience intense intrusive thoughts and/or hyper-fixate on certain compulsions in their lives to distract themselves from the disorder. Obsessions in OCD refer to intrusive thoughts that are so intense they may cause stress and uncertainty. Many individuals who have OCD often hyper-fixate on things such as cleanliness (germs/order of items), aggressive behavior (in themselves and others), and negative intrusive thoughts.

While compulsions provide temporary ease to oneself, many do not gain pleasure from these routines but continue to indulge in them in fear of something bad happening if they stop. As the individual continues to maintain that routine, the chance of the compulsion sticking with them in the future increases. Obsessions often influence compulsions, such as excessively cleaning one's hands in fear of germs. Only in extreme cases do these routines take excessive time in one day, making it difficult to attain a normal lifestyle. 

About 2% of the United States experience OCD, and the diagnosis requires a series of requirements including persistent and time-consuming obsessions or compulsions that may impair one's lifestyle. Although it is uncommon, some individuals who have OCD also experience a tic disorder. Tic disorders may include sudden fast jolts and sounds that are repetitive.

There are many treatments for OCD, the most common being Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). During CBT, patients are exposed to their irrational fears and realize that their routines provoked by anxiety are not necessary. Patients may also take medication, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Most psychiatrists recommend treating mild OCD cases with a combination of CBT therapy and SSRIs, but it is up to the patient and their comfort levels to decide what treatment method they would like.

In addition to professional help, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with positive relationships is crucial to helping one's mental health. Setting time aside to enjoy quality time with friends and family increases dopamine levels and distracts oneself from the negative obsessions and compulsions one may experience.