Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Psychiatric Treatment in San Diego
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by recurring thoughts, behaviors, or both that cause a person to feel driven to perform specific rituals or routines. These repetitive thoughts and actions can significantly interfere with daily activities and may be difficult to control.When they’re seeking obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment, San Diegoresidents have various options, including therapy and psychiatric intervention.
The symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder can vary from person to person and typically fall into two categories: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are recurrent unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses that cause significant distress. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession.For obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) therapy, San Diego residents can explore different avenues to find the most suitable approach.
Causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The exact cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder is still unknown, but research suggests a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors can contribute to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorder. San Diego residents with a family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder are at a higher risk of developing the disorder.
Neuroimaging studies have also found differences in brain structure and function in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder compared to those without it. These differences primarily involve areas of the brain responsible for regulating fear and anxiety as well as decision-making processes, which may lead to obsessive and/or compulsive behavior. San Diegoresidents with these types of brain differences can benefit from treatment by psychiatric professionals.
Environmental factors, such as trauma or stressful life events, may also play a role in the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Additionally, some research suggests that certain infections can trigger symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder in those who are genetically predisposed to the disorder.
Symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder
When it comes to the obsessive component of OCD, San Diego residents may experience some of these common obsessions:
- Fear of contamination or germs
- Unwanted aggressive or taboo thoughts
- A need for symmetry and order
- Excessive doubt or indecisiveness
With specialized obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) therapy, San Diego residents experiencing these symptoms can find help to manage and overcome their challenges.
Common examples of compulsive behavior San Diego residents may exhibit include:
- Excessive hand washing, cleaning, or grooming
- Repeatedly checking doors, locks, appliances, or other items
- Counting, tapping, or repeating words silently
- Arranging objects in a specific order
If they’re struggling with these symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorder, San Diego residents can benefit from targeted OCD treatment.
When they’re struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) disorder, San Diegoresidents often experience intense anxiety or distress if they’re unable to perform their rituals or resist their obsessive thoughts. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and may lead to avoidance of certain situations, relationships, or activities.
At Sacred Psychiatric, we understand how challenging it can be to struggle with OCD. San Diego residents can rely on our dedication to building a strong therapeutic relationship with each individual, ensuring his or her emotional and psychological wellbeing is supported in every way possible.
Treatment
Fortunately, there are effective forms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment. San Diego patients may benefit from the most common form of treatment, psychotherapy, specifically exposure response therapy (ERP) and cognitivebehavioral therapy (CBT). ERP gradually exposes people to situations designed to provoke a person’s obsession/compulsion in a safe environment. CBT focuses on identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms. Therapy can also help patients develop coping mechanisms for managing their symptoms.
In some cases, medication may also be prescribed as a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment. San Diegoresidents can discuss treatment options, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), with their psychiatric providers.to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants for obsessive-compulsive disorder. These medications work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms.
With obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) therapy, San Diegopsychiatric providers can help those with obsessive-compulsive disorder develop healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes that can improve their overall wellbeing. This can include stress management techniques, relaxation techniques, and promoting a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise.
At Sacred Psychiatric, your provider will work with you in challenging and creating exposures to your compulsions and/or intrusive thoughts. Our compassionate team specializes in OCD care, providing support and strategies for managing obsessive thoughts and/or compulsive behavior. San Diego patients can rely on our years of experience in behavioral health.We will focus on ERP (exposure and response prevention) and guide you to find a therapist best suited for helping you manage these symptoms. Along with behavioral modification, we’ll work together in exploring medications/supplemental treatment options. If they’re dealing with OCD, San Diego residents should reach out to Sacred Psychiatric at 619-251-2712.