Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a frustrating and overwhelming condition. Many people who have OCD feel trapped in a cycle of unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors, but you don’t have to feel this way. At CCT, our expert therapists can help you find the right OCD treatment for your unique situation and guide you through your journey to recovery.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, often called OCD, involves a cycle of recurring intrusive thoughts or urges (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) to reduce anxiety or distress.

For example, someone with OCD might wash their hands a lot because they’re worried about germs, or they might check their doors many times because they’re afraid of someone breaking in. Sometimes, people with OCD have alarming thoughts about hurting others or doing bad things.

Understanding OCD

Living with OCD can feel like a constant struggle between your thoughts and actions. You might find yourself stuck in a loop of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The drive behind these behaviors is the hope of preventing something bad. However, the relief is often only temporary, which then keeps the cycle going.

OCD Causes and Risk Factors

OCD can start at any age, but it often begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Symptoms can change over time, and treatment can help manage them. Here are some factors that increase the likelihood of developing OCD:

• Family History – If you have a family member with OCD or another mental health condition, you may be at risk.
• Life Experiences – If you experienced a significant life change or hardship, your mind may develop obsessive thoughts to cope with anxiety.
• Brain chemistry – Abnormalities in certain brain regions may contribute to OCD.

OCD Treatment in Ottawa

Treatment for OCD helps you manage your obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. At CCT, we will guide and teach you to reduce the need to act on your intrusive thoughts so you can view your thoughts as “just thoughts”. We will match you with a dedicated therapist to steadily support you and help lessen the intensity and frequency of your unwanted thoughts. They’ll create a plan just for you, so you can feel supported every step of the way.

Source: American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787