WHAT IS OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition characterized by persistent, intrusive, and recurring thoughts that cause anxiety, apprehension, or worry, along with repetitive behaviors called compulsions aimed at reducing the anxiety if the ritual is not performed.
At our Marbella clinic, we have specialists in OCD treatment to help you achieve the quality of life you deserve.
Often, this anxiety is linked to superstitious thinking, where the individual believes that if they do not perform the compulsive ritual, something bad may happen to themselves or their loved ones.
People with OCD may feel guilty about their ritualistic behavior, and family members may become frustrated because they cannot control the compulsions. Sometimes, family members try to help by ignoring symptoms, justifying them, or even participating in the rituals—actions that are counterproductive.
SYMPTOMS OF OCD
Obsessions: Recurrent and persistent thoughts, images, or impulses experienced as intrusive and unwanted, often causing significant anxiety or distress. Common obsessions include:
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Fear of contamination (e.g., germs or dirt)
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Excessive doubt and need for certainty (e.g., worrying about leaving doors unlocked or the stove on)
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Need for symmetry or exactness
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Aggressive or terrifying thoughts (e.g., imagining harming oneself or others)
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Forbidden or sinful thoughts, often related to sexuality, religion, or morality
Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to strict rules. The goal is to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event, though the actions are unrealistic or disconnected from the situation. Common compulsions include:
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Excessive washing or cleaning (e.g., frequent handwashing)
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Repeatedly checking things (doors, appliances, etc.)
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Counting, repeating words, or other actions to relieve anxiety
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Arranging or aligning objects in a specific way
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Hoarding or collecting unnecessary items
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Mental rituals, such as silent prayers, counting, or repeating words
COMMON TYPES OF OCD
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Contamination and Cleaning OCD: Fear of contamination (germs, dirt, toxins) and compulsions involving washing and cleaning.
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Checking OCD: Repeated checking to prevent feared events (e.g., doors unlocked, stove left on).
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Symmetry and Ordering OCD: Need for order, symmetry, and exactness; extreme discomfort when things are “out of place.”
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Hoarding OCD: Compulsive saving or collecting objects, often disorganized, due to fear of losing something important.
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Forbidden or Terrifying Thoughts OCD: Aggressive, sexual, or religious intrusive thoughts; rituals aim to neutralize these thoughts.
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Harm or Responsibility OCD: Obsessions about causing harm to self or others or preventing disasters, leading to checking or reassurance-seeking behaviors.
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Relationship OCD (ROCD): Obsessions about romantic relationships, such as doubts about loving one’s partner or if the partner is “right.”
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Health OCD / Hypochondria: Obsessions about having or acquiring a serious illness, often accompanied by compulsive health checks or reassurance-seeking.
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Pure OCD: Predominantly obsessions without visible physical compulsions, though mental rituals may be present.
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Exactness OCD: Need for everything to be “just right” or “perfect,” leading to repeated actions until they feel correct.
People with OCD usually recognize that their obsessions and compulsions are excessive or irrational, yet feel unable to resist them, causing significant distress and interfering with daily life.
OCD is treatable. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), sometimes combined with medication, can be highly effective.
If you want to overcome OCD and live a life free from rituals, call us for a consultation: +34 672 115 083 / 951 765 549