E - What Is OCD
                     What Is 
OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition that goes far beyond simply 
being neat or overly organized. It’s a chronic and often debilitating disorder characterized by 
persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that 
create significant anxiety and interfere with daily life. Understanding the true nature of OCD 
is the first step toward finding relief. This condition affects millions, but with specialized care, 
the cycles of doubt and distress can be broken.
The Two Pillars of OCD: Obsessions 
and Compulsions
To understand Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, it’s helpful to look at the two core 
components that drive the disorder’s cycle of distress.
Obsessions: The Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts
Obsessions are repeated and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that feel 
intrusive and
unwelcome. They cause marked anxiety and distress. Common themes include:
● Contamination: Excessive fear of germs, dirt, or illness.
● Harm: Fears of accidentally or intentionally harming oneself or others.
● Symmetry and Order: A need for things to be arranged perfectly or 
exactly right.
● Taboo Thoughts: Disturbing sexual, religious, or aggressive thoughts.
The individual recognizes that these thoughts are products of their own mind (not delusions), 
but cannot suppress them through logic or willpower.
Compulsions: The Ritualistic Actions
Compulsions are repeated behaviors or mental actions that someone feels compelled to carry
out because of an obsession or strict internal rules. They are attempts to reduce the 
anxiety caused by the obsession or to prevent a dreaded event or situation.
Compulsions can be:
● Overt (observable): Excessive hand washing, checking locks and appliances multiple 
times, arranging objects, or repeating actions.
● Covert (mental): Silently repeating phrases, counting, or excessive praying to "undo" a 
bad thought.
Crucially, the compulsive acts are not realistically connected to the event they are meant to 
neutralize, or they are clearly excessive. The temporary relief they provide reinforces the 
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder cycle.
When OCD Overlaps with Other Conditions
The distress caused by this chronic cycle can lead to, or worsen, other mental health 
challenges. It is very common for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder to present alongside other 
diagnoses.
Co-occurring Challenges
The anxiety and exhaustion from constantly fighting intrusive thoughts can be immense. It 
is
extremely common for individuals with OCD, anxiety, and depression to be diagnosed 
simultaneously. The persistent worry fuels generalized anxiety, while the hopelessness from 
feeling trapped can lead directly to depressive symptoms. A professional assessment is vital 
to distinguish between these conditions and treat them effectively.
Diagnosis and Professional Treatment
Because of its complex neurobiological roots, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder rarely improves 
without professional, evidence-based treatment. The goal of treatment is to gain tools that 
break the compulsion-driven cycle and restore stability.
The Assessment Process
If the cycles of obsessions and compulsions are disrupting your life, seeking diagnosis is the
first step toward clarity and effective management. A qualified Oklahoma City psychiatrist or 
psychologist will conduct a thorough assessment.
This process ensures the correct diagnosis and helps rule out other conditions that might 
present similar symptoms. Working with an Oklahoma City psychiatrist ensures you receive 
care from a medical doctor who understands the biological underpinnings of the disorder 
and can accurately manage the medication component. This comprehensive oversight is 
essential for long-term stability and relief.
The Value of Specialized Therapy
The recognized "gold standard" for managing obsessive compulsive disorder is a specific type
of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP 
gently and systematically exposes the individual to their feared thought or situation without 
allowing them to perform the compulsion. Finding a therapist skilled in ERP is crucial for 
success.
The Role of Medication Management
For many individuals, medication is a necessary component of treatment, particularly when
symptoms are severe or when co-occurring depression is present. Medication, often specific
types of antidepressants, can help regulate the brain's serotonin system, which is implicated 
in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. A professional assessment is needed to determine 
whether medication is appropriate and to monitor how it affects the individual.
Expert Care for Obsessive Compulsive 
Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a complex condition driven by biological factors, but it is 
highly treatable. Gaining an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan is the key 
to managing its impact and reclaiming control over your life.
Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services offers thorough, supportive care for 
individuals dealing with obsessive compulsive disorder. Our integrated team offers expert 
psychiatric evaluation, personalized medication management, and evidence-based 
psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs, including support for co-occurring OCD, 
anxiety, and depression. We are dedicated to empowering you with the tools and strategies 
to thrive in a discreet and supportive environment. Contact us to schedule a confidential 
consultation.