Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is a very real, very intense disorder that can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. The disorder may involve agitation, hypervigilance, impulsivity, meaningless repetition of words or actions, ritualistic behavior, social isolation, and more. No matter what type of OCD you are experiencing, note there are tools you can use to help overcome this. OCD can be very distressing, but here are several tips to help you begin your journey to recovery:
- Try to agree with the obsessive thoughts. The International OCD Foundation emphasizes to never analyze, question, or argue with obsessive thoughts. Simply acknowledging that the thoughts are there and are real is enough to help them pass.
- Avoid seeking reassurance from others. If you tend to reach out to a loved one for comfort from obsessive thoughts, seek to avoid this and instead tell yourself that things will unfold as they should.
- Choose to walk towards your fear instead of away from it. Exposing yourself to your fear is the only way that you will be able to see it for what it really is and become less afraid of it.
- Turn scary situations into positive events that you can learn from. Much of how we experience life is based on our perception – if you come into contact with a situation that triggers fears, rephrase that experience as an opportunity for learning, practice, and growth.
- Break patterns of rituals so that you can overcome the obsession. If you’re used to always wearing the same colored socks, practice wearing two mismatching socks. Breaking up your rituals will help you to realize that you will still be safe, even if these things aren’t happening.
If OCD is significantly affecting your daily life, consider seeking out a therapist or treatment program. Many treatment programs offer several different services to help you to develop the tools you need to understand your disorder and your underlying fears, as well as tools to manage your symptoms and overcome them. Don’t give up. Recovery is possible.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. Our licensed, experienced health care professionals will work with you to restore your mind, body, and spirit. If you are ready to seek treatment, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation.
