OCD: Overcome Compulsive Disorders
Up. Down.
Left. Right. Wait a minute. That’s not right. Down. Up. Right. Left. Okay,
maybe that’s good. Oh, no! If you carry the traits of obsessive compulsive
disorder, those inner thoughts of aiming for perfection may be familiar to you.
Obsessive
compulsive disorders affect approximately 2.3% of the population between ages
18- 54 (understanding_ocd.tripod.com). More people suffer from OCD than more
commonly known mental health disorders such as panic attacks and bipolar
disorder. So one will wonder, how does a seemingly uncommon challenge touch so
many lives?
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| A common symptom of OCD is the perfect alignment of objectives. |
CAUSE
For many
years, OCD was believed to be the result of learned behaviors from life
experiences. This conclusion is an understandable premise due to common OCD
behaviors that include cleanliness and compulsive repetition of beliefs, thoughts
and actions. But with today’s advanced research, the cause of OCD stems more
toward biological origins. Through the study of PET scans, OCD has been
connected to other neurological disorders such as Tourette’s syndrome &
body dysmorphic disorder aka obsession with cosmetic changes and appearances
(understanding_ocd.tripod.com).
EFFECT
Symptoms of
OCD does not equal insanity. The behaviors and thoughts are unique and
different but manageable. No need to think that an OCD lifestyle is beyond
control or devastating.
OCD
traumatizes most who are new to the symptoms. The repetitive and obsessive
behaviors and thoughts that are characterized as OCD sometimes lead to
agitation, anxiety, panic attacks, fear and depression. Most individuals who
have learned to live with OCD in some way have learned to manage their symptoms
to live a “normal” lifestyle.
OVERCOME OCD
Medication
in combination with cognitive behavior therapy is the most effective method to
management of obsessive compulsive behavior. This method should follow the
diagnosis and recommendation of a professional healthcare personnel. Self- assessment
and diagnosis of OCD or any other mental health challenge is not a sound
option.
OCD support
groups are another beneficial element in the remedy to relieving symptoms.
Support groups aid in providing solace and comfort. Knowing that others have
the same experiences of unwanted repetitions provides more opportunity to control
and management skills.
The best
way to overcome any life challenge is through changing the way you think about
the challenge. Firstly, don’t think that your issue is a hindrance. Any
challenge placed before you can strategically be moved to behind you.
Secondly,
be bold enough to seek the assistance you need. Due to stigma associated with
mental health and addiction, guidance is rarely sought. The last thing that
needs to be focused on is how your issue adds up to someone else’s. No one has
the same challenges or lifestyle. Do what is best for you to defeat your
challenge.
When you are ready to sit down with a professional and
strategically overcome your life challenge, contact GMC at info@ginmanconsulting.com.
If
you or someone you know has OCD, please leave a comment to enlighten or educate
us.
