WARNING SIGNS OF OCD

I can't believe how many people i've come across in the last year with serious unchecked OCD (Obsessive compulsive disorder). I know in the church it's taboo to get help but maybe this will wake you up to yourself or those around you.

Warning Signs of OCD

• Do you wish you had an “off” button so you could stop thinking about the same thing over and over?

• Do you feel the need to repeat a ritual that would be embarrassing if others knew what you were doing?

• Are you so competitive that if you are not the winner or the absolute best you feel deeply upset?

• Do you need to control everything and everyone?

• Do you worry about your sexuality, your performance or your orientation?

• Do you wash your hands repeatedly? Do you take several showers a day? Are you a neat freak? Does mess, disorder or dirt bother you a lot?

• Do you unplug your appliances when you go to bed at night or when you go away for a few days?

• Do you bite your nails, pick scabs or pimples, pull skin, pull out hairs, or mutilate your body in some other way?

• Do you hoard items, especially things that are not really needed, or in amounts that are excessive?

If you answered yes to these questions you may have obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Interventions and treatments for obsessive-compulsive symptoms can bring you relief and a new lease on life.

Treatment Options for OCD

There are several kinds of treatment for OCD. Psychotherapy, behavior therapy, and medicines are available for people who have obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Most research and psychiatrists recommend Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) as the therapy of choice for this condition. CBT is not concerned with the reasons that someone is OCD instead they focus on extinguishing the symptoms and changing the negative self-statements that often occur. CBT is most successful when the patient practices the techniques that are taught by a qualified therapist. CBT is often used with children who have OCD.

Some people want to understand the underlying sources of anxiety that contribute to their obsessive thinking, rather than focusing only on symptoms. Talking therapies, such as interpersonal psychotherapy or psychoanalysis are recommended for patients who are willing to use insight, reflection and analysis to explore their issues.

Medicine may be necessary and is prescribed by a psychiatrist or internist to alleviate symptoms of OCD. SSRI’s such as Prozac are often used because they reduce anxiety which helps change obsessive thinking and compulsive actions. Other kinds of prescription medications are also available.

Alternative remedies, such as teas or valerian root can help.Acupuncture, relaxation and yoga, may reduce anxiety, which in turn, allows an individual to manage their obsessive-compulsive symptoms.