People say my behavior fits obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I don’t have an official diagnosis, but I think it might be true. My mind gets stuck on certain thoughts. (For example, I worry a lot about germs.) My actions have caused tension in my marriage and friendships. But I don’t know how to help myself.
ANSWER:
NOTE: This article gives a brief overview of a complex topic. If you or someone you know is struggling with signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder, don’t try to self-diagnose. Instead, call our Counseling team at 1-855-771-HELP (4357) for a free phone consultation. They can give you a list of referrals to licensed therapists in your area who specialize in treating OCD. You can also find resources through the International OCD Foundation’s website (iocdf.org).
Effective treatment is available for people who struggle with obsessive-compulsive issues, including both obsessive-compulsive disorder and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder that usually has two parts: thoughts and behaviors. (However, a person with OCD can sometimes have obsessions without compulsions, and they can have compulsions without obsessions. This makes the disorder complicated.)
- Obsessions are persistent, unwanted thoughts about specific topics.
- Compulsions are behaviors a person uses to try to get obsessive thoughts out of their mind.
In short, someone with OCD often has intrusive, anxiety-producing obsessive thoughts. And to try to get rid of these unwanted thoughts, an individual with OCD often acts on compulsive behaviors (repetitive actions or rituals). They could also be gripped by a thought (urge) that they should do something — even if they don’t follow through.
For example, excessive handwashing is one of the best-known examples of a compulsion. The initial obsession that can lead to such behavior is ongoing, anxious thoughts about germs.
What is obsessive-compulsive personality disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a syndrome that characterizes a person’s overall orientation toward life.
OCPD is an expression of an individual’s entire personality, philosophy, and worldview. People with OCPD often have rigid and perfectionistic views about life. OCPD is more common among men than women, and most psychologists agree that it can’t be diagnosed accurately until about 18 years of age.
Where can I find professional treatment for OCD and OCPD?
If you think your symptoms match either of the brief descriptions above for OCD or OCPD, don’t try to self-diagnose.
Instead, we recommend getting a professional evaluation from a qualified and licensed Christian psychologist or psychiatrist. Counseling is a good first approach in the treatment of both OCD and OCPD. For treating OCD, medications can also be an option (typically, certain antidepressants known as SSRIs).
Call our licensed or pastoral counselors at 1-855-771-HELP (4357) for a free over-the-phone consultation. They’d be happy to talk with you about your situation. They can also give you a list of referrals to psychologists in your area who specialize in treating OCD and OCPD.
And for more information, visit the International OCD Foundation’s website, and read Brain Lock: Free Yourself From Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior. (Please note that both the website and book are secular, so we can’t guarantee that all their stances align with Focus on the Family’s Christian worldview. However, their content can be helpful.)
Resources
Brain Lock: Free Yourself From Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior — Jeffrey M. Schwartz and Beverly Beyette (available through online retailers and many local bookstores)
