• 1539 Garnet Ave San Diego, CA 92109
  • Monday-Friday 9AM-7PM Saturday & Sunday 9AM-4PM
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Altura Mental Health
(619) 350-0077

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

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It’s important to understand that OCD is not about being overly tidy or a perfectionist. OCD is a serious condition that can significantly interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. At Altura Mental Health, we offer specialized treatments to help you manage OCD and improve your quality of life.

Get Started
(619) 350-0077
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If you recognize signs of OCD in yourself or someone you care about, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to significant improvement and a better quality of life.
Overview

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s characterized by a cycle of unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the anxiety these thoughts create. OCD can significantly impact various areas of life, including work, school, relationships, and overall well-being. It exists on a spectrum, from mild to severe, and while it can be challenging, effective treatments are available to help individuals manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives.

The Cycle of OCD

OCD often follows a pattern:

Intrusive Thoughts

Obsessions

Unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger significant distress.
Emotional Response

Anxiety

Intense feelings of anxiety, fear, or disgust in response to the obsessions.
Repetitive Actions

Compulsions

Repetitive behaviors (e.g., handwashing, checking) or mental acts (e.g., counting, praying) performed to neutralize the obsessions and alleviate anxiety.
Brief Respite

Temporary Relief

Compulsions provide temporary relief, but the obsessions inevitably return, restarting the cycle.
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Signs & Symptoms of OCD

OCD can manifest in various ways, and it’s important to understand the common signs and symptoms. While not everyone experiences all of these, recognizing potential indicators can be the first step toward seeking help and finding relief. Remember, OCD affects an estimated 2-3% of the population worldwide, so you’re not alone in this.

Common Obsessions (Intrusive Thoughts)

  • Contamination Obsessions

    Fear of germs, dirt, or illness; excessive worry about getting sick or spreading contamination.

  • Harm Obsessions

    Fear of causing harm to oneself or others, often through unintentional actions or aggressive impulses.

  • Perfectionism Obsessions

    Needing things to be “just right” or symmetrical, leading to extreme distress over minor imperfections.

  • Religious Obsessions

    Intrusive thoughts about sin, blasphemy, or morality, causing significant guilt and shame.

  • Sexual Obsessions

    Unwanted, disturbing thoughts about inappropriate or taboo sexual acts.

  • Other Obsessions

    These can include intrusive thoughts about relationships, losing control, or specific numbers or words.

  • Washing and Cleaning Compulsions

    Excessive handwashing, showering, or cleaning of objects or spaces.

  • Checking Compulsions

    Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or other items to ensure safety or prevent harm.

  • Counting Compulsions

    Counting objects, steps, or other things in specific patterns or sequences.

  • Ordering and Arranging Compulsions

    Rearranging objects to achieve perfect symmetry or order.

  • Mental Rituals

    Repeating words or phrases silently, praying excessively, or mentally reviewing events to ensure nothing was missed.
Living with OCD can take a significant toll on a person’s emotional and mental well-being. It’s common to experience:

  • Anxiety and Fear

    Intense feelings of anxiety, worry, and panic triggered by obsessions.

  • Depression

    Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities due to the burden of OCD.

  • Shame and Embarrassment

    Feelings of shame or embarrassment about the obsessions and compulsions, leading to social isolation.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with these thoughts and behaviors, it’s important to seek professional help. OCD is a treatable condition, and early intervention can lead to significant improvement and a better quality of life.
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Understanding Different Types of OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not a one-size-fits-all condition. There are various types of OCD, each characterized by specific themes of obsessions and related compulsions. Recognizing the type of OCD you or your loved one may be experiencing can be helpful in tailoring treatment and finding the most effective strategies for managing the condition.

Common Types of OCD

Contamination OCD

This type involves an intense fear of germs, dirt, or illness. Individuals with contamination OCD may engage in excessive handwashing, cleaning rituals, or avoidance of situations perceived as “contaminated.”

Harm OCD

People with harm OCD experience intrusive thoughts about causing harm to themselves or others, often unintentionally. These thoughts can lead to checking compulsions, such as repeatedly ensuring that doors are locked or appliances are turned off.

Perfectionism OCD

Also known as “Just Right OCD,” this type centers on a need for symmetry, order, or perfection. Individuals may engage in repetitive behaviors to ensure that things are arranged “perfectly” or engage in mental rituals to alleviate distress caused by perceived imperfections.

Religious OCD

This involves intrusive thoughts about sin, blasphemy, or morality, often leading to excessive praying, confessing, or seeking reassurance from religious figures.

Relationship OCD (ROCD)

This type focuses on obsessive doubts and fears about the suitability of a romantic relationship or the partner’s feelings. Individuals with ROCD may constantly seek reassurance, analyze their relationship excessively, or compare themselves to others.

Sexual OCD

People with sexual OCD experience unwanted, distressing thoughts about inappropriate or taboo sexual acts. These thoughts can be extremely distressing and lead to compulsive behaviors like seeking reassurance or avoiding triggers.

Hoarding Disorder

While categorized separately in the DSM-5, hoarding disorder is often considered a type of OCD. It involves difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value, due to emotional attachment or fear of needing them in the future.

Understanding Your Specific Type of OCD

Recognizing your specific type of OCD can be helpful in tailoring treatment to your unique needs and challenges. While the core principles of OCD treatment apply across different types, specific therapeutic techniques and strategies may be more effective for certain themes.

If you’re unsure about the type of OCD you’re experiencing, it’s important to seek professional guidance. A qualified mental health professional can help you accurately identify your specific OCD subtype and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your individual needs.

Statistics About OCD

Understanding the prevalence and impact of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can help to destigmatize the condition and highlight the importance of seeking help. Here are some key statistics that shed light on OCD:

  • Prevalence

    OCD affects approximately 2-3% of the population worldwide, making it one of the most common mental health disorders.

  • Age of Onset

    OCD typically begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. The average age of onset is 19 years old, but it can also emerge later in life.

  • Gender

    OCD affects both men and women equally.

  • Impact on Daily Life

    OCD can significantly impair daily functioning. The obsessions and compulsions can consume hours each day, interfere with work or school, and strain relationships.

  • Co-Occurring Conditions

    OCD often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders, depression, and eating disorders.

OCD is More Common Than You Think

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These statistics highlight that OCD is a widespread condition, affecting millions of people globally. It’s not a character flaw or a sign of weakness; it’s a medical condition that requires understanding and treatment.

The Importance of Early Intervention

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Early diagnosis and treatment of OCD are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening. If you or someone you know is struggling with OCD, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Effective treatments are available, and recovery is possible.

How is OCD Diagnosed ?

Understanding the Diagnosis of OCD

Receiving an accurate diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an important step towards finding the right treatment and support. While self-assessment tools can be helpful, a formal diagnosis should be made by a qualified mental health professional.

The Role of Mental Health Professionals

A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist, is trained to assess and diagnose OCD. They will typically conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

  • Clinical Interview

    A detailed discussion about your symptoms, their duration, their impact on your life, and your medical history.

  • Psychological Assessment

    You may be asked to complete questionnaires or scales designed to measure OCD symptoms and assess their severity.

  • Observation and Discussion

    The clinician will observe your behavior and discuss your thoughts and feelings to gain a deeper understanding of your experience.

Diagnostic Criteria for OCD

Mental health professionals use established criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose OCD. These criteria include the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions that are:

  • Time-Consuming

    The obsessions and/or compulsions take up a significant amount of time (e.g., more than an hour per day).

  • Distressing

    The obsessions and/or compulsions cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

  • Not Due to Another Condition

    The symptoms are not better explained by another mental health disorder, medical condition, or substance use.

OCD vs. Everyday Worries

It’s important to note that everyone experiences worries and doubts from time to time. However, OCD involves persistent, distressing thoughts and compulsions that significantly interfere with daily life. If you find yourself consumed by these thoughts and behaviors, or if they are causing you significant distress, it’s crucial to seek professional help.

The Importance of Professional Evaluation

Self-assessment tools can be a starting point, but they are not a substitute for professional evaluation. A qualified mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

When to Seek Help

If you recognize signs of OCD in yourself or someone you care about, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to significant improvement and a better quality of life.

How Does Altura Treat OCD?

Comprehensive and Compassionate OCD Treatment at Altura Mental Health

At Altura Mental Health, we understand the challenges and complexities of living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Our team of experienced and licensed mental health professionals, specializing in OCD and related disorders, is dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized, and evidence-based treatment to help you or your loved one regain control and live a fulfilling life.

Our Approach to OCD Treatment

We believe in a holistic approach to OCD treatment, combining the most effective therapies with compassionate care and support:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a cornerstone of OCD treatment. Our therapists will work with you to identify and challenge the distorted thoughts and beliefs that fuel your obsessions. You’ll learn to reframe negative thoughts, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and reduce the urge to engage in compulsions.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

ERP is a powerful behavioral therapy that involves gradually and systematically confronting your fears and anxieties in a safe and controlled environment. You’ll learn to tolerate the distress caused by obsessions without resorting to compulsions, ultimately weakening the connection between the two and reducing the power of OCD over your life.

Medication Management

In some cases, medication may be recommended in conjunction with therapy to help manage OCD symptoms. Our psychiatrists work closely with you to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage, carefully monitoring your progress and adjusting treatment as needed.

Additional Therapy Modalities

We also offer other evidence-based therapies that may be incorporated into your treatment plan, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings and taking actions aligned with your values, and mindfulness-based techniques, which can help you cultivate greater self-awareness and reduce anxiety.
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Personalized Treatment Plans

We recognize that every individual’s experience with OCD is unique. That’s why we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, goals, and challenges. We work collaboratively with you to create a roadmap for recovery that empowers you to overcome OCD and thrive. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of your symptoms, your response to therapy, and other individual factors.
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Your Path to Recovery Starts Here

If you’re ready to take the first step towards a life free from OCD, we’re here to help. Our compassionate team of experts is committed to providing the highest quality care and support on your journey to recovery.

What are the Best Therapy Options for OCD ?

At Altura Mental Health, we offer a range of evidence-based therapies that have proven effective in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). These therapies empower you with the tools and strategies to manage your symptoms, break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, and improve your overall quality of life.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a cornerstone of OCD treatment, focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Our therapists will help you identify and challenge the negative thought patterns that contribute to your obsessions. You’ll learn to reframe these thoughts, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and ultimately reduce the urge to engage in compulsions.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

ERP is considered the gold standard for OCD treatment. This therapy involves gradually and systematically exposing you to the situations or objects that trigger your obsessions while teaching you to resist the urge to engage in compulsions. Over time, ERP helps to desensitize you to your triggers and reduce your anxiety, allowing you to regain control over your life.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy that focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings rather than trying to suppress or control them. It teaches you to identify your values and take actions that align with those values, even in the presence of anxiety and obsessions. ACT can be a valuable tool for managing the emotional distress associated with OCD and living a more fulfilling life.

Other Therapeutic Approaches

In addition to these core therapies, we may also incorporate other evidence-based approaches into your treatment plan, such as:

  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

    Combines mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy to help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

    Developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT can also be helpful for managing the emotional dysregulation that often accompanies OCD.

  • Medication Management

    In some cases, medication may be recommended in conjunction with therapy to help manage OCD symptoms.

Finding the Right Therapy for You

The most effective therapy for OCD depends on your individual needs and preferences. Our experienced therapists will work with you to assess your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporates the most suitable therapeutic approaches.

Your Journey to Recovery Starts with the Right Therapy

At Altura Mental Health, we believe that everyone deserves access to effective and compassionate OCD treatment. If you’re ready to take the first step towards recovery, we encourage you to reach out and schedule a consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
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FAQs for OCD

We understand that you may have many questions about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, along with clear and informative answers.
See all FAQs

What causes OCD?

The exact cause of OCD is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Research suggests that imbalances in certain brain chemicals, like serotonin, may play a role. Additionally, stressful life events or childhood trauma can sometimes trigger or worsen OCD symptoms.
While there’s no known cure for OCD, it’s a highly treatable condition. With the right therapy, medication, and support, most people with OCD can significantly reduce their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.
The duration of OCD treatment varies depending on the individual, the severity of their symptoms, and their response to therapy. Some people may see significant improvement in a few months, while others may require longer-term treatment. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome.
Yes, OCD can affect children as well as adults. In children, the symptoms may manifest differently and can sometimes be mistaken for normal childhood behaviors. Common obsessions in children include fears of contamination, harm, or making mistakes, while compulsions may involve excessive handwashing, checking, or repeating actions.
While both OCD and perfectionism involve a desire for order and control, there are key differences. Perfectionism is often driven by a desire for high achievement and external validation, while OCD is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety. OCD can cause significant distress and impairment, while perfectionism may not always be problematic.
While some self-help strategies can be helpful, OCD is a complex condition that usually requires professional treatment. If you’re struggling with OCD, seeking guidance from a qualified mental health professional is crucial for receiving an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.
OCD can strain relationships due to the time-consuming nature of rituals, emotional distress, and misunderstandings. Open communication, education about OCD, and couples or family therapy can be beneficial.
Yes, OCD can make it difficult to concentrate, meet deadlines, or interact with colleagues or classmates. Accommodations, therapy, and medication can help manage these challenges.
Medication is not always necessary for everyone with OCD. However, for some individuals, medication can be a helpful tool in managing symptoms, especially when combined with therapy. The decision to use medication should be made in consultation with a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare provider.

If someone you care about has OCD, the best thing you can do is offer support, understanding, and encouragement. Educate yourself about OCD, listen to their experiences without judgment, and encourage them to seek professional help. You can also help them by being patient and understanding when they’re struggling with their symptoms.

We accept most major insurance plans. Please contact our admissions team to verify your coverage and discuss your treatment options.

To get started, simply call us at (619) 350-0077 or fill out our online contact form. Our admissions team will be happy to answer any questions you have and schedule a free, confidential consultation.

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Altura Mental Health
(619) 350-0077

1321 Garnet Avenue San Diego, CA 92109

Monday-Friday 9AM-7PM
Saturday & Sunday 9AM-4PM

[email protected]

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