Understanding OCD: What It Is and When to Seek Help
I’m Dr. Benjamin Lippmann, a psychiatrist, and today I want to talk to you about something called Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
What is OCD?
OCD is a condition that affects the brain. People with OCD have thoughts or fears that bother them a lot. These are called obsessions. To try to get rid of these thoughts, people might do certain actions over and over again. These actions are called compulsions.
Common Symptoms of OCD
Here are some signs of OCD that you might notice:
- Washing Hands Too Often: Some people with OCD are very worried about germs. They might wash their hands many times a day, even if their hands are already clean.
- Checking Things Over and Over: Others might worry that they left the door unlocked or the stove on. They might check these things again and again to make sure everything is okay.
- Counting or Arranging: Some people feel they have to count things or arrange items in a certain way. If something is out of place, they might get very upset.
- Unwanted Thoughts: People with OCD might have scary or upsetting thoughts that they can’t get rid of, no matter how hard they try.
How to Recognize OCD
It’s normal to have worries or do things a certain way sometimes. But if these worries or actions take up a lot of time and make it hard to do everyday things, it might be OCD. For example, if washing your hands takes so long that you’re late for school or work, that could be a sign of OCD.
Who Should Seek Care?
If you or someone you know has symptoms like the ones I just described, it’s important to talk to a doctor. OCD is not something you can just “snap out of,” but the good news is that there are treatments that can help.
When to Get Help
- If the symptoms are taking up a lot of time: If you’re spending hours each day on these thoughts and actions.
- If it’s making life hard: If it’s hard to go to school, hang out with friends or do things you enjoy because of these thoughts and actions.
- If you’re feeling really upset: If the thoughts or actions are making you feel very sad or worried.
Conclusion
OCD can be tough, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. If you think you might have OCD, talk to a parent, teacher or doctor. They can help you find the right care.
Remember, it’s always okay to ask for help!
Benjamin Lippmann, DO
Contact Information:
- Address: 5302 Florida Ave. South, Suite 206, Lakeland, FL, 33813
- Phone number: (863) 289-0968