OCD & Obsessions

Symptoms of OCD include either recurrent and unwanted obsessions (thoughts, impulses, images) or compulsions (repetitive behaviors in an effort to prevent or reduce distress or an event). The person recognizes that the obsessions or compulsions are excessive and unreasonable and have caused significant distress, are time consuming, or significantly interfere with the person’s normal daily routine and play a negative role in life. Common obsessions and compulsions for example include:

• hand washing
• counting
• door checking
• thoughts of contamination
• sexual imagery

What many OCD sufferers don’t realize is that this problem can be well managed. With proper treatment, a high proportion of those with OCD can minimize their symptoms, and regain control of their lives. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proven to be the most effective form of psychotherapy to help people in both significantly reducing symptoms of OCD and achieving enduring relief.