Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Many people with OCD suffer silently.

OCD is stereotypically seen as an outward condition, with symptoms of excessive handwashing and extreme cleanliness. But this is just the tip of the iceberg of potential manifestations of this brain disorder.

OCD is an illness marked by intrusive thoughts, chronic anxiety, obsessions, and compulsive behaviors. This condition can be absolutely debilitating, robbing a person of their time, energy, and inner peace.

What causes OCD?

Various neurobiological factors interact to trigger the onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Your family environment, health history, psychology, and nervous system wiring all play a role.

In some children, infections trigger an inflammatory response within the immune system that “flips the switch” when the brain is epigenetically or neurochemically susceptible.

In some adults or children, exposure to biotoxins (mold, Lyme, seafood toxin, etc.) induces an inflammatory cascade that makes the brain more susceptible to dysfunctional thoughts and behavior patterns, contributing to the development of the condition.

Is there a cure? How is OCD treated?

While there is no known, definitive “cure” for obsessive-compulsive disorder, it is possible to achieve remission through treatment.

The most widely recognized and utilized treatments include psychotropic medications and a specific type of therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention (Ex/RP). Ex/RP involves careful, intentional exposure to situations that trigger fear while resisting engaging with the compulsive rituals that neutralize or reassure.

Some individuals improve with one or the other, and some individuals require both treatments simultaneously More severe cases typically require medications and/or intensive therapy.

Along with medications and Ex/RP, it’s important to investigate and take care of any contributing underlying causes. These can include mold illness, PANS/PANDAS, nutrient imbalances, blood sugar dysregulation, and stress and trauma.

I find it incredible to witness the brain changes of patients with OCD as they go through treatment and begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Where they previously thought there was no hope for relief, they’re experiencing more and more days feeling normal and free to live their lives.

You don’t need to struggle alone. You are deserving of peace, and recovery is possible.

A patient of mine waited years to get help because she was afraid to face the reality that something was wrong. She felt ashamed she were dealing with OCD and felt like she wasn’t normal. I let her know that millions of people deal with OCD. It’s nobody’s fault. You’re doing the very best you can with what you know and have.

Sometimes we just need other people to help us get unstuck. You are not meant to go through this alone. Your nervous system is wired to be in community and connection. Healing happens best in connection.

You could keep doing what you’re doing, and continue in the same struggle, or you could dare to take a leap and reach out for help. Where do you want to be in 6 months? 1 year? 5 years? You are deserving of a full life free from the burden of OCD. If you’re ready to make a change, I’m here to help. Click the button below to get started today.