In popular media, OCD is often depicted as spending a lot of time cleaning or being a germaphobe. However, that’s not how OCD works at all. Also known as obsessive-compulsive disorder, it is a lot more frustrating than people think it is. It is also not uncommon, which makes these misunderstandings a mystery. Perhaps it’s because of the stigmas attached to OCD so people don’t feel comfortable talking about it. Here’s what you should really know about OCD.
What Is It Like To Have OCD
Instead of having a focus on a specific task, people with OCD tend to act and spend their energy on compulsions. Treatment for OCD can help with these compulsions, but the individual must first understand that these compulsions are not normal, especially if they interfere with their normal life. In fact, many of them already know that their actions are irrational and have problems controlling their thoughts and impulsions.
OCD And Intrusive Thoughts
Intrusive thoughts can be a part of OCD, but it doesn’t only show up as words in your mind. It can show up in the form of unwanted images, sensations, urges, and memories. People can become preoccupied with these thoughts to the point that they can’t function without fulfilling these intrusive thoughts. The more they try to fight against these thoughts, the harder it is for them to continue doing normal activities. These thoughts also make them question their own thoughts and feelings towards other people or specific situations.
How To Treat OCD Intrusive Thoughts
Everyone has intrusive thoughts once in a while. But it’s when those thoughts become a fixation in the person’s mind that they don’t know how to keep going about their days that it becomes a real problem. People with OCD know that these thoughts aren’t rational but feel compelled to be dictated by them anyway.
One of the most common and effective treatments for OCD and intrusive thoughts is exposure and response prevention therapy, also known as ERP. This method of treatment teaches individuals to tolerate their intrusive thoughts without turning to compulsions to help them cope.
How Does ERP Work?
The therapy involves working with a trained therapist to create exposure exercises together that are specifically geared toward your needs and goals. The individual is placed in a situation that triggers these intrusive thoughts and, instead of engaging in a compulsive action, they sit with these anxieties and worries and choose a different response. This trains them to find alternative methods of dealing with their compulsions so that they can find alternatives that are better for their mental health. Over time, the individual will notice that their anxiety decreases and their intrusive thoughts become less problematic.
Dealing with OCD alone cannot be easy for anyone, and that’s why it’s important to speak to a medical health professional sooner rather than later. Don’t let OCD continue to control your life when you can have better control over it. You don’t have to let your compulsions control you anymore.
