OCD

OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, can interfere with regular work and social relationships. This anxiety disorder makes you feel the need to perform specific actions in response to triggers. OCD can be debilitating for some -- seek help if you are engaging in obsessive thinking or compulsions that impact your ability to live. At JC Health Group, Jessy Nwuba, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, offers comprehensive OCD treatment  to give you back control. If you’re concerned that you have OCD, Call the Colonial Heights, Virginia, office today to schedule an OCD consultation or book an appointment online. 

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

OCD is characterized by recurring thoughts and repetitive behaviors. It’s common to have periodic thoughts focusing on specific subjects or performing repetitive routines, but OCD is different.

If you have OCD, you have no control over your recurring thoughts, sensations, or ideas, which are often unwanted. In severe cases, you may have thoughts centered on harming yourself or others — seek immediate care if this is true for you.

Obsessive fear of contamination is also common, as is a fixation on unwanted mental images or sexual thoughts. These thoughts are intrusive and unwanted in nature but come up frequently throughout the day, which may cause academic, social, and work impairments. 

To gain relief or neutralize these thoughts, one with OCD may engage in repetitive behaviors or compulsions. Common compulsions include:

• Excessive checking
• Seeking reassurance
• Repeating a certain phrase
• Moving or touching particular objects a certain number of times 

Most people who suffer from OCD notice the symptoms as early as childhood or adolescence, but they can also come on in adulthood. 

What if my OCD is impacting my daily life?

Some people are quite aware that their obsessive thoughts are not in line with reality or necessity. They understand that their behavior can be irrational or unreasonable. However, this awareness can cause additional stress because even though they know their thoughts aren’t “normal,” they can’t control them.

In other cases, however, people with OCD believe that there is some truth and necessity to their obsessive thought patterns. They may feel that their impulses are rational and essential in preventing harm.

If you’re concerned about OCD behaviors or loved ones have commented, it’s worth setting up a consultation with Dr. Nwuba for discussion and therapy.

How do you treat OCD?

Dr. Nwuba addresses OCD with the latest in mental health practices. This can involve exposure and response prevention (ERP), which helps you decrease compulsive behaviors and increase tolerance to obsessive thoughts. ERP gradually exposes you to your feared obsessive thoughts without the use of compulsions. Exposures are conducted in session or may be completed out in the real world. Dr. Nwuba completes exposures with you, as she believes it is important to work together to conquer your OCD symptoms.

Each treatment plan she creates is highly individualized. She takes into account your unique background, experiences, and the ways that OCD impacts your life. If OCD is interfering with relationships and personal development, Dr. Nwuba can help. 

If you have obsessive behaviors and routines, call JC Health Group or schedule a consultation online today.