Understanding Therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a serious anxiety disorder. In media and in your daily life, you’ve probably heard OCD referred to offhandedly when people say things like, “That’s so OCD,” or “Don’t be so OCD about it.” Unfortunately, the portrayal of OCD as something laughable or silly can be extremely harmful. Perhaps the biggest concern is that those who truly struggle with OCD may not recognize the seriousness of their condition or seek appropriate care. In this blog, we explain what OCD is, its common symptoms, risk factors for developing this condition, and how to get in contact with us a Lansing Counseling to schedule therapy. 

Exactly What Is OCD? 

OCD occurs when a person finds themselves stuck in a cycle of obsession, compulsivity, or a combination of the two. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts that trigger painful emotional responses. Compulsions are behaviors a person feels compelled to do either to soothe the emotional turmoil brought on by their obsessions or distress that has other causes. The obsessions and compulsions may be linked or independent of each other. In most cases, symptoms are considered as being indicative of either obsession or compulsion. Both sets of symptoms tend to be related to specific themes as outlined below. These themes lead people to develop related obsessions and compulsions. 

Obsessive themes: 

• Fear of contamination or lack of cleanliness
• Need for things to be in a specific order 
• Not managing uncertainty 
• Unwanted and often upsetting thoughts about self-harm, harming others, catastrophe, sex, religion, and other topics

Compulsive themes: 

• Counting specific items 
• Cleaning or sanitizing 
• Repeatedly checking locks, lights, or other static objects
• Order, symmetry, and organization 
• Routines 

Who Is at Risk for OCD? 

While OCD is often a symptom of trauma, chronic stress, and other factors, anyone can develop this condition. However, there are some factors that increase the risk for developing this condition, including: 

• Genetics – those who have a family history of OCD or other anxiety disorders may be significantly more likely to develop this condition themselves.
• Age – OCD most frequently develops during the teen and young adult years.
• Gender – women are significantly more likely to develop OCD compared to men, but men more often develop OCD as children and teens. 
• Cooccurring mental health concerns – those who have been diagnosed with anxiety and other mental health conditions may be more likely to develop OCD. 
• Perinatal mental health concerns – those who struggle with mental health before, during, and after pregnancy, may be more likely to develop OCD. 

How to Get Started with Therapy 

If you’re struggling with OCD or any other emotional, cognitive, or behavioral health concerns, the Lansing Counseling team is here to help. They offer a range of therapy options from a team of counselors who are dedicated to helping our clients manage anything life throws at them. When you’re ready to get started, call us at (517) 333-1499, email [email protected], or fill out our online scheduling request.