Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder. According to the Cleveland Clinic, OCD “traps people in endless cycles of thoughts and behaviors.” People with OCD have unwanted, recurring and distressing thoughts, fears, or images (obsessions) that they cannot control. The anxiety produced by these thoughts leads to an urgent need to perform certain rituals or routines (compulsions).” Unfortunately, performing the rituals provides only temporary relief and not performing them creates intense anxiety.
The thoughts and rituals of OCD cause distress and interfere with daily life and functioning. Many people with depression, other anxiety disorders, learning disorders, attention deficit disorders, and eating disorders have struggles with aspects of OCD related to these conditions. Be sure to share any OCD thoughts or behaviors with your counselor. Together, we can work on ways to find relief from these distressing symptoms.
