- What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
- What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- What Are the Risk Factors for OCD?
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Reviews
- How Is OCD Diagnosed?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
- Get In Touch
- Related Posts
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by obsessive-compulsive behaviors, often leaving individuals feeling powerless against intrusive thoughts and urges. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we strive to empower our patients to regain control over their OCD tendencies, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives. If you're grappling with symptoms of this disorder, contact our Superior, CO office.
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
There are several treatment methods available for OCD. The most common is prescription medication; however, we also provide transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy.
TMS and ketamine therapy offer viable alternatives to prescription medications, particularly when dealing with unwanted side effects. TMS involves noninvasive treatment using magnetic pulses to target the brain region associated with OCD symptoms. Meanwhile, ketamine therapy, administered via IV, has shown efficacy in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Regardless of the chosen treatment option, our team is dedicated to supporting each patient as we collaborate to find the most suitable solution for their needs.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is believed to result from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Studies suggest that abnormalities in brain structure and function—particularly in regions that regulate anxiety and impulse control — may play a role in its development. Additionally, having a family history of OCD or other mental health disorders can increase one’s risk of developing OCD.
People with OCD commonly experience persistent, unwanted thoughts, known as obsessions, that cause significant anxiety. These obsessions often lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts, known as compulsions, which are performed to ease the anxiety. Common symptoms of OCD include:
Obsessions:
- Fear of contamination or germs
- Fear of harming oneself or others
- Strong need for symmetry or order
- Intrusive thoughts involving violence or inappropriate behaviors
Compulsions:
- Excessive hand-washing or cleaning
- Repeatedly checking things, like doors or appliances
- Counting or arranging items in a specific order
- Performing mental rituals, such as repeating certain phrases
What Are the Risk Factors for OCD?
Several factors can play a role in the development of OCD, including genetic, neurological, and environmental influences. Although the precise cause is not entirely understood, specific risk factors may increase the chances of developing OCD:
- Family history of OCD or other mental health conditions
- Differences in brain structure and function
- Exposure to stressful life events
- Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism
- Childhood infections or autoimmune responses
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Reviews
Amazing. It's hard to describe Serenity in words, but everyone has been the most amazing, caring, thoughtful (looking for my gratitude words!) and supportive team I have ever had. My final TMS session (2nd ever, and this was a million times better than the first elsewhere) was the day I post this. I will miss being there every day, but I know that I can always reach out. The psychiatrists and support team here are the best, in my opinion. I honestly do not know where I would be right now if my friend didn't tell me about them. I'm so grateful for my friend telling me and all the awesome people in Serenity on and off the phone. I've been to many other places + people before in the country and either I hit the jackpot or found the best group to help with this journey with my friend's own experience. My friend has been with them for some years now, and his experience has helped him so much. Thank you all!! You all mean so much to me. I hope anyone reading will take the opportunity to try Serenity themselves. In my own experience of trying to get better personally, I never thought there was a place like this. Please, try. There's many places out there, but even if you have been to many you think don't fit, try here. It won't hurt and know it's a safe space. I hope it helps as it did for me. I'll see everyone soon! Truly, every day going there was the highlight of my day.
I had a wonderful experience coming to Serenity. I work in the mental health field, and have seen how hard it can be for people to access services, and I was pleasantly shocked at how smooth and quick the process was for me to get an appointment here. Big perk they take my insurnace. Katy McLaughlin was very sweet, easy to talk to, and provided me with a lot of clarity. She really listened to my concerns, points of view, and my needs, and welcomed me into her with a really great first appointment experience. 10/10
I just wanted to give my personal account of Dr. Katy McLaughlin. She was so kind to me in my time of need. If it weren’t for her, I may not be here today. After my insurance changed, I was forced to discontinue my visits. Serenity Mental Health Centers is lucky to have her. I want to wish her and her colleagues a warm thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, so much for your professionalism and kindness.
I cannot rave about Serenity Mental Health Centers enough!! Beth Martin is my provider at the Superior location. We’ve been working together a little over 4 months and I am so grateful to have met her. She’s an excellent, compassionate provider who truly cares about her patients. She’s extremely empathetic and good at what she does. Everyone at that location is wonderful from reception to medical assistants and providers. I also love the staff at the cherry creek location by my home where I do my TMS sessions. My tech Rhonda is just the sweetest woman. So kind and just delightful to see daily. Their receptionists are also equally warm and attentive. I’ve recommended Serenity to all my friends in the area. Keep up the great work!
I've been in therapy and on meds for a decade and was completely hopeless before I found Serenity. They recommended I do TMS and it changed my life!!!! I can finally say I am happy and live a "normal" life thanks to serenity. I am eternally grateful to have found them.
5
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
How Is OCD Diagnosed?
OCD is determined through a comprehensive assessment by our board-certified psychiatrists. The diagnostic process generally includes an in-depth clinical interview to evaluate the individual’s symptoms, past experiences, and overall mental health. We specifically search for signs of obsessions, which are persistent and unwanted thoughts, and compulsions, which are continual behaviors or mental actions undertaken to relieve anxiety. The evaluation often involves the use of questionnaires or rating scales to measure the severity of the symptoms. This comprehensive strategy ensures a precise diagnosis and facilitates the development of a customized treatment plan that caters to the individual’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age does OCD typically develop?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can start appearing as early as preschool or may not emerge until adulthood. Generally, males are more likely to experience the onset of OCD between the ages of 6 and 15, while females often begin to notice symptoms between the ages of 20 and 29.
Is there a hereditary link to OCD?
While studies show that OCD tends to run in families, heredity is only one part of the equation. The disorder usually arises from a mix of genetic predispositions and environmental triggers.
What factors increase the risk of developing OCD?
Although the precise causes of OCD remain unknown, certain risk factors are commonly associated with the disorder. These factors include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Abnormalities in brain structure
- Variations in brain function
- Influences from the environment
Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
If you suspect you have OCD, you may feel scared, alone, and even frustrated. However, help is readily available in Superior, CO. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, our professionals are dedicated to assisting you in learning how to manage your obsessive thoughts and control your compulsive behaviors. Take the first step toward managing OCD — we're here to support you every step of the way.