- What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
- What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- Serenity Mental Health Centers Reviews
- How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
- Related Posts
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness that causes a person to have obsessive-compulsive behaviors. It's a condition that often leaves individuals feeling powerless against these thoughts and/or urges. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we're here to help empower our patients to take control of their OCD tendencies so they can live more easily. For anyone struggling with the symptoms of this mental illness, help can be just one phone call away.
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
There are several treatment methods that can be used to treat OCD. The most common is prescription medication. However, we also offer transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy.
TMS and ketamine therapy can be a great alternative to prescription medications when undesirable side effects take place. TMS is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the part of the brain associated with OCD symptoms. Ketamine therapy is an IV treatment that is known to reduce depressive and anxiety-related symptoms.
No matter which treatment option, our team will support each patient as we work to find a treatment that works for them.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
OCD is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Research suggests that abnormalities in brain structure and function, particularly in areas involved in regulating anxiety and controlling impulses, may contribute to the development of OCD. Additionally, a family history of OCD or other mental health disorders can increase the risk.
Symptoms of OCD typically include persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that cause significant anxiety and lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce that anxiety. Common symptoms of OCD include:
- Obsessions:
- Fear of contamination or germs
- Fear of harming oneself or others
- Need for symmetry or order
- Intrusive thoughts about violence or inappropriate behaviors
- Compulsions:
- Excessive hand-washing or cleaning
- Repeated checking (e.g., doors, appliances)
- Counting or arranging items in a specific order
- Mental rituals (e.g., repeating phrases)
Serenity Mental Health Centers Reviews
My psychiatrist is named Dr. Colvin and he is an excellent person to count on for aid with mental health. He has prescribed medicine for me that has worked wonders in my life, and he continues to meet my concerns by providing more medication when needed. Alongside him, the staff is extremely flexible with their availability, and whenever I’ve needed to change a date on the calendar for appointments, they have been swift and generous to meet those needs as well. I’d recommend Serenity to anyone that is struggling to battle the demons in their head; they have changed my life and I know they will do the same for you as well.
Best services and best Dr. French
Very patient doctor. I greatly appreciate his kindness and honesty. Highly recommend Dr. Michael Gower.
Serenity really cares for their patients and it shows with everything they do. The wait time isn’t long at all. Everyone is kind and very helpful. They listen to any concerns you may have and validate your feelings/concerns. I appreciate the atmosphere they create.
Dr. Ruiloba is wonderful. He always listens to what I need and makes adjustments accordingly. The Serenity office centers are also wonderful and always a pleasure to visit, so I am very thankful for all of the hardwork and effort that the entire team puts into making my visits enjoyable and running smoothly.
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How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
OCD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation by our board-certified psychiatrists. The diagnosis usually involves a detailed clinical interview where we assess the individual’s symptoms, history, and overall functioning. During this process, we look for the presence of obsessions, which are recurrent and intrusive thoughts, and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to alleviate anxiety. Assessments may also include questionnaires or rating scales to evaluate the severity of symptoms. This thorough approach helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and leads to an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age will a person begin to develop OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can begin as early as preschool or as late as adulthood. Men tend to develop OCD earlier than females, often between ages 6 – 15. Females generally start to see symptoms between 20 – 29.
Is OCD hereditary?
While research shows that OCD does run in families, it is only a partial factor for causing the disorder. OCD generally develops as a result of genetic and environmental factors.
What are the risk factors for OCD?
The exact causes of OCD are not known at this time; however, there do seem to be some common risk factors for the disorder. Those include:
- Genetics
- Brain structure
- Brain function
- Environmental factors
Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
For individuals who suspect they have obsessive-compulsive disorder, they may feel scared, alone, and even a little bit frustrated. Know though that help is right around the corner. The professionals at Serenity Mental Health Centers are here to help you learn how to manage your obsessive thoughts and control your compulsive behaviors. Take the first step toward managing OCD — we're right here to help.
