Definition of OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a disease of the nervous system, a widespread disorder that affects the human life, and affects all ages, and may accompany the person throughout life unless treated.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a type of mental illness that is reflected in the behavior and thinking of the individual, the patient adheres to the behavior and habits of different intensely and alarming, repeated repeatedly, and described as compulsive; because the owner can not get rid of it without undergoing treatment, and forced on what does not want the actions, The victim is clearly aware of the futility of his actions, but he can not escape from them, and comes with an internal and urgent desire to do.
Examples of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The obsession divides into two parts linked to each other, the compulsive thoughts of acquiring a certain idea of the person who controls his mind and can not get rid of it, and the coercive acts which stem mostly from coercive thoughts and are a consequence. Examples of such acts and ideas include:
- Fear of germs.
- Fear of hurting oneself or others.
- To think of forbidden or socially unacceptable ideas.
- The urgency of having things arranged in order and in certain ways.
- Concern about closing doors.
- Your bodywarming oasis, hand washing, and bathing constantly.
- Arrange in a consistent manner, and return it if the person makes mistakes in the steps.
The manifestations of obsession
There are several behavioral and social manifestations appear on the person with obsessive-compulsive disorder, and these manifestations are:
Behavioral manifestations
Examples of some of the habits and behaviors of people with obsessive-compulsive disorder:
- Store unnecessary items, such as old newspapers, or things that are not needed.
- Recurrence of a specific word or phrase.
- The existence of certain rituals for the person in his dealings with or around things.
- Extensive home cleaning.
- Repeated washing hands, or bathing excessively.
- Reorder things in a special way.
Social aspects
Examples of some of the social aspects that appear to people with obsessive-compulsive disorder include:
- The person with obsessive-compulsive disorder does not want to shake hands or be touched by others.
- Show signs of serious disturbance or anxiety when things are not properly organized.
- Checking things several times, having a constant need to check things out and feel safe.
- Commitment to a certain protein, inability to get out of it.
- Delay in delivery of work and carrying out tasks.
- Losing time because of the ritual performed by the patient permanently.
Causes of OCD
Scientists have not yet been able to determine one direct cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder, but there are a range of biological and environmental factors that may be the cause of this disease:
Biological causes
Biological causes leading to obsessive-compulsive disorder are divided into two types:
- Genetic predisposition, heredity may also play a role in the disease, children are more susceptible to obsessive-compulsive disorder if parents suffer from it.
- Brain-related studies have shown that there may be a difference between the brain of the person with obsessive-compulsive disorder and the healthy human brain; there may be hyperactivity in certain parts of the brain, especially those responsible for strong emotions.
Environmental causes
And the environment surrounding the individual since his childhood a major role in his life, and environmental factors that may be a cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder:
- Exposure to abuse or exploitation.
- the disease.
- Change in environment and ways of living.
- Exposure to trauma due to the death of a relative.
- Changes and problems at school or workplace.
- Problems with relationships.
Diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder
There are many medical and psychological tests performed by the specialist to diagnose OCD, which excludes any other diseases with symptoms similar to the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, and these tests:
- Physical examination.
- Laboratory analyzes.
- Direct psychological evaluation by the specialist.
Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder is ashamed, and may prevent him from asking for help. This may aggravate the situation and make the treatment process more difficult and longer. Diagnosis and immediate action.
The treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder is possible and very importable, especially if the treatment methods are met and met, and the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder:
Psychotherapy
This treatment is based on the use of the method of “cognitive behavioral therapy” where the patient is taught through specific sessions the way in which he can face his fears, either imagine or face the immediate concerns, and is taught how to control his fear, and not to exaggerate events and leave excessive thinking or amounts In this matter, and also adjust this treatment concepts and misconceptions of the patient and which causes obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Drug therapy
Medications are used if the doctor sees the need. The patient may be given anti-depressants because they increase the serotonin levels that may be present in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder and there may be antipsychotics. It is important to keep your doctor informed of all side effects that may occur when taking medication or any other medications usually taken by the patient, or supplements, vitamins and others.
Other treatment methods
In advanced cases of this disease, the therapist may isolate the patient and enter the psychiatric department, or may resort to the work of electric shocks to the patient, but these methods of treatment are rare and less followed and are used only in cases of acute and advanced disease, and has not been effective so far, as Not sufficiently tested.
To learn more about obsessive-compulsive disorder and how to cure it, watch the video.