OCD

OCD is characterized by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (“obsessions”) and/or behaviors that one feels the urge to ritualistically repeat (“compulsions”). Obsessions can come in the form of thoughts, feelings, mental images, sensations, or urges and, usually, they lead to anxiety and discomfort. Obsessions are often experienced as a single, pesky thought that grows and grows until it feels out of control.

Obsessive thoughts typically lead to repeated, painful, time-consuming behaviors - compulsions. Compulsions are the brain’s way of avoiding the anxiety and distress caused by the obsession or preventing the feared outcome from occurring. Compulsions usually provide some relief from the anxiety, but it’s very brief. The result - a painful, habitual cycle in which obsession-based anxiety is alleviated by repeated compulsions, thus interfering with relationships, daily life, and general wellbeing.

If you’re looking for OCD therapy in Chicago, Tandem Psychology may be the solution for you.

OCD can include:

• Especially rigid consciousness or excessive fears of making mistakes
• Self doubt and need for reassurance
• Strong feelings of guilt and remorse
• Perfectionism
• Alcohol and/or drug abuse
• Strong needs for control
• Checking
• Obsessions and compulsions about about self-harm
• Obsessions about love and fidelity
• Body appearance related obsessions
• Phobias
• Panic

It’s common to have routines and habits in your day. These routines can actually lighten the mental load and make it easier to be creative, solve problems, and think critically. But when your habits become so rigid that breaking them creates anxiety, OCD might be to blame.

Generally, OCD therapy is warranted if you - spend more than an hour a day with an unwanted thought or behavior; feel like you can’t control thoughts or behaviors, even though you know they are excessive; engaging with the thought or performing the ritual doesn’t feel good, although it might give you a brief break from the anxiety the thoughts cause; or, your thoughts or rituals are distressing or get in the way of your daily life.

OCD symptoms can come and go over time. Some people begin avoiding situations that trigger their OCD, so the impact of their symptoms appears to decrease, but the pattern of avoidance can create alternative problems. Alcohol and other drugs might be used abusively in order to feel calm.

If you're unsure about whether your obsessive and compulsive habits warrant OCD therapy, Tandem Psychology's individual therapists can formally assess your condition and make a recommendation. 

Because most adults with OCD recognize that their behaviors don’t make sense, it’s not uncommon for people to conceal their symptoms for years. When OCD is addressed, symptoms are typically significantly reduced. A therapist for OCD can help you to learn to interrupt your obsessive thoughts, decrease compulsive behaviors, and feel a sense of calm.

If you’re looking for help managing anxiety or OCD, please schedule an in-person appointment at our Lakeview offices or a telehealth appointment to meet virtually. We have a team of exceptionally trained and experienced psychologists, social workers, and clinical counselors ready to help you overcome your OCD.