MENTAL HEALTH OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER

MENTAL HEALTH OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER

WHAT IS OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER? Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that usually develops in adolescence or young adulthood. However, younger children and older adults can also develop symptoms. OCD is seen in as many as 1 in 200 children and teens, and it affects about 2.2 million adults in the United States. What are the Symptoms of OCD? People with OCD experience obsessions and/or compulsions: } Obsessions are repeated and persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that are experienced as disruptive to everyday activities. The thoughts and behaviors cause anxiety and distress. Obsessions are not simply worries about real-life problems. They may be, for example, a fear of germs, imagined harm to oneself or others, forbidden thoughts, a fear of making a mistake, or excessive doubt. } Compulsions are repeated acts a person with the disorder performs in an effort to control the anxiety created by the obsessions. These rituals, or repetitive behaviors, are aimed at preventing or reducing distress, or preventing some dreaded event or situation. They are excessive and not realistically connected to the obsession. Examples of compulsions include excessive hand washing, repeated checking or touching, counting, collecting, hoarding, arranging, or organizing. 2

People with OCD typically recognize that the obsessions or compulsions are excessive or unreasonable. They may take up more than an hour a day, cause significant distress, and interfere with a person s normal routine. Symptoms of OCD can vary in intensity over time and can be more problematic during periods of increased stress. How to Recognize OCD There s a difference between having obsessive or compulsive behavior and having a disorder. Some compulsive behaviors performed in daily life to relieve anxiety are normal and even beneficial. For example, you might worry about a house fire and check twice to see if you have turned the oven off before leaving home. This is normal and adaptive. However, if you check the oven many times before leaving home, and you feel compelled to do so every time you leave your home, you may have a disorder. The worry may be so severe that you are unable to leave the house at all. Any behavior that becomes disruptive, doesn t make sense, or interferes with your life may indicate the presence of a disorder. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of OCD, schedule a visit with a health care professional to explore your symptoms further. 3

TREATMENT OPTIONS OCD is frequently under-diagnosed and under-treated. This may happen because a person does not understand the illness and may be secretive about the symptoms. Working with a therapist or physician is a helpful way to explore the symptoms of OCD, in addition to symptoms of depression and anxiety that may also be present. Physical examination Treatment for OCD should include both a physical and a psychological evaluation. The physical exam can determine if there may be physical causes for anxiety symptoms. Medical issues that can cause symptoms of anxiety include an ulcer, asthma, or an overactive thyroid, as well as the overuse of caffeine, diet pills, or decongestants. Cognitive behavioral therapy Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of several types of treatment used for anxiety disorders such as OCD. It focuses on helping a person learn and use new ways of thinking to change behaviors that are counterproductive or that interfere with everyday life. CBT can help address the underlying thought patterns that trigger compulsions. It is a time-limited, problem-focused treatment. 4

One technique used by CBT therapists that is specifically helpful to people with OCD is exposure and response prevention. In this approach, the individual deliberately avoids behaviors typically used to respond to fearful thoughts or situations. CBT or other talk therapies can be offered one-to-one with an individual therapist or in a group setting with other people who are experiencing similar symptoms. Medication Medication combined with therapy is a common and effective treatment approach for many people. Medication must be prescribed by a physician or a nurse practitioner. 5

HELPFUL RESOURCES National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) nami.org NAMI is a self-help, support, and advocacy organization of consumers, families, and friends of people with severe mental illness. National Institute of Mental Health 1-866-615-6464 nimh.nih.gov This organization provides information about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. Brochures and information sheets, reports, press releases, and other educational information are available. Obsessive Compulsive Foundation 1-617-973-5801 ocfoundation.org This is an international organization of people with OCD, their families, friends, and professionals. The organization provides a newsletter, articles, pamphlets, books, and videotapes, as well as training for mental health professionals. It also organizes OCD support groups. Anxiety and Depression Association of America 1-240-485-1001 adaa.org This national organization works with clinicians, researchers, and consumers. It offers information, a newsletter, an OCD handbook and DVD, self-tests, and guides to finding a therapist. It also provides training to mental health professionals. 6

For more information and referrals for treatment, Tufts Health Plan members can contact the Tufts Health Plan Mental Health Department at 1-800-208-9565 or look online at tuftshealthplan.com. 7

Mental Health Department 1-800-208-9565 tuftshealthplan.com 705 Mount Auburn Street Watertown, MA 02472 MH-OCD-6/14