Halodoc, Jakarta - Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disorder of irrational thought patterns and fears (obsessions) that make the sufferer perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with activities and trigger stress.

When people with OCD try to ignore or stop their obsessions, it makes them feel distressed and anxious. Ultimately, OCD sufferers feel compelled to act compulsively to relieve stress. Despite trying to ignore the disturbing thoughts, the sufferer will do the same thing again.

Also Read: Can Past Trauma Really Cause OCD?

Symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

People with OCD may not realize that their obsessions and compulsions are excessive and irrational. Although the obsession and compulsion takes a lot of time and disrupts the routine and even the social function of the sufferer.

Obsessions are repetitive, intrusive thoughts, and urges that cause distress or anxiety. This obsession interferes when the sufferer tries to think or do other things. Examples of obsessive behavior in OCD sufferers:

Fear of dirt.

Need things that are orderly and symmetrical.

Aggressive or fearful thoughts about hurting yourself or others.

Unwanted thoughts, including aggression or sexual subjects.

While compulsion is repetitive behavior that is excessive and often unrealistic. Here are some examples of compulsive behavior:

Wash or clean.

Checking.

Calculation.

Order.

Follow a strict routine.

Demand a guarantee.

ocd therapy

There is treatment or treatment to relieve OCD sufferers, namely psychological therapy and drugs. One of the psychological therapies that can be done is a type of therapy to help deal with fear and obsessive thoughts without overcoming compulsions. In addition to therapy, antidepressants can help balance chemicals in the brain.

Psychological Therapy

A suitable therapy for OCD sufferers is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention (ERP). Therapists help sufferers solve problems and deal with obsessive or compulsive behaviors. Therapy begins with mild situations before moving on to more difficult situations. People with mild OCD usually need about 10 hours of therapy combined with home exercises. In severe cases of OCD, the sufferer may need longer therapy.

Drug Consumption

It is done if psychological therapy is not successful in overcoming OCD. The drugs that are often used are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This drug helps relieve OCD symptoms by increasing levels of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. This medicine needs to be taken for 12 weeks to see the effect. Most people need treatment for at least a year until they are declared cured.