Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)


Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental and behavioral disorder in which an individual has intrusive thoughts (an obsession) and feels the need to perform certain routines (compulsions) repeatedly to relieve the distress caused by the obsession. These obsessions and compulsions interfere with daily activities and cause significant distress.

Obsessions are persistent unwanted thoughts, mental images, or urges that generate feelings of anxiety, disgust, or discomfort. Common obsessions include fear of contamination, obsession with symmetry, the fear of acting blasphemously, the sufferer’s sexual orientation, and the fear of possibly harming others or themselves.

Compulsions are repeated actions or routines that occur in response to obsessions to achieve a relief from anxiety. Common compulsions include excessive hand washing, cleaning, counting, ordering, avoiding triggers, hoarding, neutralizing, seeking assurance, praying, and checking things.


  • Treatment
Treatment

Treatment for OCD typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

  • Medications can help reduce symptoms by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain.
  • CBT, specifically Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), involves gradually exposing the individual to their fears and anxieties and teaching them to resist the urge to perform compulsions.
  • Other therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), may also be effective in treating OCD.


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Dr. Sameh Ibrahim - Consultant Psychiatrist Abu Dhabi
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DR. SAMEH IBRAHIM
Consultant Psychiatrist


Dr. Arlene M. Cooke, Ph.D.
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DR. ARLENE COOKE
Consultant Clinical Psychologist


Dr. Raya El Khoury - Psychiatrist Abu Dhabi
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DR. RAYA EL KHOURY
Specialist Psychiatry


Lara Honein - Clinical Psychologist Abu Dhabi
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LARA HONEIN
Clinical Psychologist



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