People with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) suffer intensely from recurrent unwanted thoughts or repetitive actions often called compulsions, which they feel they cannot control - such as hand washing, counting, checking or cleaning. Performing these repetitive actions, however, provides only temporary relief, and not performing them markedly increases anxiety. Left untreated, obsessions and the need to perform these actions can take over a person's life.
What Causes OCD?
There is growing evidence that OCD has a neurobiological basis. OCD is no longer attributed to family problems or to attitudes learned in childhood - for example, an inordinate emphasis on cleanliness, or a belief' that certain thoughts are dangerous or unacceptable. Instead, the search for causes now focuses on the interaction of neurobiological factors and environmental influences.
OCD is sometimes accompanied by depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other anxiety disorders. When a person also has other disorders, OCD is often more difficult to diagnose and treat. Symptoms of OCD can also coexist and may even be part of a spectrum of neurological disorders, such as Tourette's syndrome. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment of other disorders are important to successful treatment of OCD. Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital can help.
Learn More About OCD Services Available at Laureate
For questions, or to schedule an appointment with a mental health professional, please call the Laureate Outpatient Clinic, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 918-491-3700.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 911.