Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What is a OCD?

OCD meaning obsessive compulsive disorder, is a mental health disorder characterized by the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions that significantly impair a person’s daily functioning. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted, and repetitive thoughts, images, or impulses that cause anxiety, fear, or distress.

What are compulsions?

We speak of compulsions when repetitive behaviour or mental acts can be distinguished that drives a person to perform in response to an obsession. They feel like doing so to reduce anxiety or prevent harm. Typically, people with OCD engage in compulsive behaviour in an effort to neutralize or alleviate their anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts.

Young adults with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is often discovered at a young age, as the first signs become apparent when the child goes to school. It can be diagnosed before puberty. Signs include not being able to oversee the day, being overstimulated and out of balance, caused by their own thoughts.

What are common obsessions for people with obsessive compulsive disorder?

Common obsessions for people with OCD include:

• Persistent thoughts of contamination
• Fear of causing harm to oneself or others
• Excessive doubt or uncertainty
• A need for symmetry or perfection.

Common compulsions include:

• Excessive cleaning or hand washing
• Checking behaviours
• Counting or repeating behaviours
• Mental acts such as praying or repeating certain phrases.

OCD symptoms

How can you recognize OCD by a young adult? Signs and symptoms of OCD include:

• Feeling the need for constant checking
• The compulsive need to put everything in a certain order
• Delusional
• Sexual obsessions
• Disturbing ideas
• Aggression when something is not going like they would like to see it
• Difficulty dealing with sudden changes
• Repetitive behaviour patterns
• Obsessed with a certain activity; limited amount of interests

What causes OCD?

The causes of OCD are not fully understood. It’s often connected to anxiety and depression or caused by childhood trauma. Genetic, environmental, and neurological factors can play a role. Studies show imbalances in serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters may play a role in developing OCD.

Treatment for young adults with OCD

Early intervention is important for the successful treatment of OCD. Young adults with OCD benefit from cognitive-behavioural therapy. This type of therapy is an important part of The Grange Youth Clinic program. It helps individuals to manage their symptoms and develop important coping skills.

Need help? Contact us

The Grange Youth Clinic can help young adults who are dealing with OCD. Learn more about our treatment here or register for an intake interview below. If you would like to register a young adult or young adult (aged 18-25) for a treatment at The Grange Youth Clinic, please complete our intake form and we will contact you to schedule a personal intake interview. Our therapists have experience working with individuals from all walks of life and will help you overcome your problems and find hope for the future.