Unwanted thoughts that loop in your mind and behaviors you feel forced to repeat can take over your daily life. At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness in Chandler, Arizona, Chrissy McLaughlin, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with proven methods that actually work. She understands how exhausting it feels when your brain won’t give you peace, and she helps you break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Text the office today to schedule your appointment or book online to get started.
OCD involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that create intense anxiety, paired with repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) meant to reduce that anxiety. People with OCD typically know their thoughts and behaviors don’t make sense, but feel powerless to stop them.
The condition is often misunderstood, with many people thinking it primarily revolves around organization and cleanliness. OCD is more complex than that. Many obsessions and compulsions exist, and some are more subtle than you realize.
OCD symptoms usually develop gradually. You might not even make the connection between new obsessions and compulsions and OCD at first. These changes often mimic generalized anxiety early on. Common signs that you may have OCD include:
These behaviors start taking over your schedule and feel impossible to skip. The main difference between OCD and everyday worries is that these thoughts stick around no matter how hard you try to ignore them.
OCD develops from multiple factors working together, including the following:
Your brain processes serotonin differently, which affects how you handle anxious thoughts and compulsive urges.
OCD runs in families, though you won't necessarily develop it just because a relative has it.
Major life changes, trauma, or prolonged stress can trigger OCD symptoms to surface or get worse.
Brain differences
Specific brain areas that manage decision-making and fear responses work differently in people with OCD.
At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness, OCD treatment focuses on breaking the cycle that keeps you trapped. Treatment includes:
This approach helps you regain control over your thoughts and behaviors, giving you back the time and energy OCD has been stealing from your life. With the appropriate support and guidance, you can learn how to manage OCD symptoms and enjoy life.
Text Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness today or use the online scheduler to book an appointment.