OCD: Can You Stop Compulsive Behavior?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, known as OCD, is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive and unwanted thoughts, feelings of anxiety or fear, and compulsive behavior. As many as 1.2% of the adult population of the United States suffers from OCD.

What is OCD?

OCD works in a vicious cycle. An intrusive thought or unwanted thought enters the mind and creates an emotional reaction, typically anxiety or fear. To relieve this fear, the person turns to compulsive behavior. The action works, and the person feels some relief for a while. But the reprieve fades quickly, and the cycle starts over again.

When it comes to compulsive behavior and OCD, the behaviors can be categorized as washing, checking, counting or ordering, and intrusive thoughts.

Washing  washing hands and excessively cleaning to avoid getting sick. Typically, the person has a fear of germs.

Checking  double-checking locks, doors, and appliances to ensure safety. The person may fear that something terrible will occur if they do not check again.

Counting or Ordering  counts and organizes items as a way to control a situation. The person brings order to their surroundings. They may also count steps on stairs or other objects.

Intrusive Thoughts  intrusive thoughts go beyond the negative. These are harmful, violent, and can be deviant. Sometimes, they are sexual or antagonistic toward religious ideas.

Although no one is entirely cured of OCD, you can learn to manage the symptoms and restrain compulsive behavior with treatment.

Can you stop compulsive behavior?

You can stop compulsive behavior with new skills and practice. There will still be triggers, but with proven psychological methods, you will learn how to take the power away from the thoughts and behaviors.

Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention are a few of the methods used to treat OCD.

Manage Your Compulsive Behavior

There are several things you can do to manage your compulsive behavior alongside seeking treatment from a mental health professional.

Figure out your triggers

Every thought and emotion is triggered by something. Figure out your triggers, not to avoid triggers but to help you work through them.

Slowly expose and deny your compulsions

Once you have identified your triggers, you can slowly expose yourself to them in a safe environment and learn to refrain from acting compulsively. The first few times will be challenging, but the more you practice, the easier it will be to walk away.

Analyze unwanted thoughts

Unwanted and intrusive thoughts are scary. A counselor can help you learn how to challenge these thoughts and change their associated emotions.

Seek help from a mental health professional

Since OCD can only be diagnosed by a mental health professional, seek help if your symptoms are interfering with your life and relationships.

Refocus the mind with exercise

Although it is more of a lifestyle tweak than a tip for managing OCD, exercise improves focus and concentration. Physical movement can help you to refocus your mind on something other than your compulsions. It also lowers anxiety levels and promotes a sense of well-being.

OCD Counseling for Compulsive Behavior in McKinney, Texas

Help is available for compulsive behavior in McKinney, Texas. Simply fill out the contact form or call our office at Texas Christian Counseling, McKinney to schedule a session with a Christian counselor in McKinney. Your counselor will run an initial assessment and create a personalized mental health plan to help you manage the symptoms and regain your life. Give us a call today.