OCD: Know its Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, Types, Triggers and Treatment!
Human Mind is a precious tool which distinguishes us from other living beings on this planet, as we have mind which helps us to think about any situation, condition, or place. Thus, we humans are said to be the only living being blessed with the thinking capacity. It is thinking only which helps us in studying, inventing, solving problems of daily life and achieving success.
But what happens when the mind gets out of control or instead of getting controlled by us it starts to control us? What if it keeps on producing unnecessary and destructive thoughts on a daily basis? Some times in a phase of life we get to worry about any one thing repeatedly! One such problem arising in today’s generation is Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). While other mental health issues such as Depression, Anxiety and Stress are widely known, people are rarely aware regarding this disease. Therefore, in this article we will explore more about this topic and get to know its meaning, causes, symptoms and cure, so let’s get started.
MEANING OF OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears that may lead you to do repetitive behaviors. It is a mental health condition where a person experience recurring thoughts (obsessions) and feels the urge to do certain actions (compulsions) to relieve the anxiety caused by these thoughts. It’s like having a bully in your brain that keeps telling you to do things, even if you don’t want to. It centers around a certain thing — for example, you will develop excessive fear of getting contaminated by the germs and to ease your contamination fears, you will repetitively wash your hands until they are sore and chapped. These type of fears and thoughts then interfere with your daily activities and cause significant distress in your life.
Usually, patients try to ignore or stop their obsessions but it only increases their anxiety. Ultimately the patient feels driven to perform compulsive acts to try to ease his or her stress. Despite efforts to ignore or get rid of thoughts and fears, they keep coming back, which makes this disease even more complex.
CAUSES OF OCD
The main causes of OCD are still not fully understood by the experts. But there are several theories about the causes of OCD, such as: -
a) Compulsions, thoughts and fears are learned behaviors, which become repetitive and habitual when they are associated with the relief from anxiety.
b) OCD can happen due to genetic and hereditary factors.
c) Various types of chemicals, structural and functional abnormalities in the brain can also cause OCD.
Although the doctors are still working to find out about the main causes of OCD in several people, it is still unclear that why only some people suffer from it while others do not, but the points listed above are very crucial and accurate, and to some extent explains why OCD happens!
SYMPTOMS OF OCD
There are several symptoms of OCD, occurrence of which it can be detected that whether a person is suffering from it or not: -
a) Repetitively washing of hands, showering or brushing the teeth.
b) Repetitively cleaning the house, household items, food, car or other areas.
c) Repetitively checking of locks, electrical and gas appliances, or other things.
d) Doubting or having difficulty in tolerating any uncertainty.
e) Needing everything in a very orderly and symmetrical manner.
f) Repetitively having aggressive or horrific thoughts about losing control and harming yourself or others.
g) Having unwanted thoughts in excessive number regarding aggression, social, sexual or religious subjects.
h) Avoiding the situations that may trigger the obsessions, such as shaking hands.
TRIGGERS OF OCD
According to experts there is an association between stressful life events and OCD, although the stressful life events by themselves do not cause OCD but they play a crucial role in triggering it. There are various interpersonal things which can play a role in triggering OCD such as: -
a) Family violence.
b) Emotional abuse.
c) Neglect, sexual abuse or dysfunctional parenting styles (over protection, neglect, rejection).
d) Any sudden major stressful event occurred in the life.
Not all types of stressful events trigger OCD, but only the interpersonal things that are associated with it. On the other hand, non-interpersonal things such as exposure to any natural disaster (earthquake, flood or drought) and witnessing any major crime (kidnapping, murder or theft) are not known to trigger the OCD.
TYPES OF OCD
Now, about the types of OCD. Just like how people are unique, OCD can show up in different ways for different people. Here are some common types:
a) Contamination OCD: This is when someone has an intense fear of germs or dirt. They might wash their hands over and over again, or avoid touching certain things, like doorknobs or public bathrooms.
b) Checking OCD: People with this type of OCD feel like something bad will happen if they don’t check things repeatedly. They might check if the stove is turned off multiple times, or if the door is locked even when they know it is.
c) Hoarding OCD: Hoarding is when someone collects and keeps things that others might see as useless or unnecessary. They find it hard to throw things away, even if their living space becomes cluttered and unmanageable.
d) Symmetry and Orderliness OCD: This is when someone feels the need to arrange things in a certain way or make sure everything is perfectly symmetrical. They might spend hours organizing their belongings or straightening objects.
e) Intrusive Thought OCD: In this type, people have disturbing, intrusive thoughts that they can’t control. These thoughts might be violent, sexual, or taboo, and they can cause a lot of distress.
f) Rumination OCD: Rumination is when someone gets stuck on a thought or idea and can’t stop thinking about it. They might obsessively analyze past events or worry about things that haven’t even happened yet.
These are just a few examples, and OCD can manifest in many other ways too. It’s essential to remember that having OCD doesn’t define who a person is, and with the right support and treatment, they can learn to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
HOW TO DEAL WITH OCD?
OCD is a disease which can be very difficult to manage at times. Some things you might try to feel better can sometimes make your OCD even worse. But nothing is impossible and like other diseases there are many ways to manage the symptoms of OCD also. Below are some things which can help you to feel better, such as: -
a) Manage your intrusive thoughts and fear of uncertainty.
b) Try mindfulness meditation.
c) Use distraction and visualization.
d) Spend time in nature.
e) Connect with others.
f) Have a good diet.
g) Try having good sleep.
h) Be physically active.
i) Contact a doctor.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, obsessive-compulsive disorder is a complex mental health condition that can affect people in various ways. Whether it’s the fear of contamination, the need for symmetry, or intrusive thoughts, OCD can make everyday life challenging for those who live with it. However, it’s crucial to remember that OCD is treatable, and there is hope for those struggling with its symptoms. Managing OCD can be an ongoing and lengthy process, you may find that there are times when things feel manageable and other times things may look very hard. Therefore, you need to be patient to yourself rather than getting anxious. You need to note that all people don’t have same personality and hence, different things work for different people at different times. Therefore, if something isn’t working for you then try something else or come back to it at another time. As the time will pass you will get to know about the proper management of your OCD and feel much better for sure.
By seeking help from mental health professionals, exploring therapy options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication, and building a support network, individuals with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and regain control over their lives. Additionally, raising awareness and understanding about OCD can help reduce stigma and ensure that those affected receive the support and empathy they deserve. Ultimately, while OCD may present challenges, it does not define a person. With patience, compassion, and proper treatment, individuals living with OCD can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, free from the constraints of their condition. Thus, together, let’s work towards a world where everyone feels empowered to seek help, receive support, and live their lives to the fullest, regardless of their mental health challenges.
