Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder services offered in Lincoln, NE

About one in 40 adults in the United States struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) during their lifetime. If you have obsessions or compulsions that negatively interfere with your day-to-day routine, see Ismatt Niazi, MD, and the team at a1 Family Psychiatry in Lincoln, Nebraska. They diagnose and treat OCD to eliminate bothersome symptoms and help you or your loved one thrive. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by phone or request one online today.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Q & A

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

OCD is a mental health condition characterized by having obsessions (unwanted fears or thoughts) and compulsions, which are unwelcome repetitive behavior patterns. While mild OCD may not be problematic, moderate or severe cases could interfere with school, work, physical health, or interpersonal relationships.

Which symptoms can OCD cause?

OCD symptoms may include one or more of the following:

Intrusive or unwanted thoughts
Fear of dirt or germs
Problems dealing with uncertainty
Horrific or aggressive thoughts
Need for constant or extreme orderliness
Thoughts about loss of control or self-harm
Fear of touching door knobs and other shared surfaces
Avoiding shaking hands
Intense stress
Doubts about turning off the stove or locking doors
Constant cleaning, washing, counting, or checking
Arranging canned goods all the same way
Demanding reassurance
Following a strict routine
Frequent hand washing

OCD symptoms typically begin during the teenage or young adult years, but they may appear during childhood. OCD symptom severity ranges from mild to severe, often worsening during periods of high stress.

What are the risk factors for OCD?

OCD risk factors include:

Brain chemistry changes
Family history of OCD
Learned behaviors from family members or friends
Stressful life events
Other mental health disorders

Anxiety disorders, substance use disorder, depression, or tic disorders may be related to OCD. Complications can include excessive time spent on your compulsions, problems at work or in school, relationship challenges, and a poor quality of life if OCD is left untreated.

How is OCD diagnosed?

The a1 Family Psychiatry team diagnoses OCD by discussing your symptoms, behavior patterns, thoughts, and emotions during a psychiatric evaluation. They also review your lifestyle habits, medications, and medical history to diagnose your condition, screen for other mental health concerns, and establish the most effective treatment.

How is OCD treated?

Treating OCD often involves taking medications, adjusting your lifestyle habits, and undergoing therapy — such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and other types of psychotherapy. Follow up with a1 Family Psychiatry routinely for therapy sessions and medication management to keep troublesome symptoms at bay.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth OCD evaluation at a1 Family Psychiatry by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.