OCD

Health & Psychiatry

Psychiatrist located across Florida

More than 2 million adults in the United States suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which is a type of anxiety disorder that causes obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The chronic condition affects every aspect of your life, including school, work, and relationships. Experienced psychiatrist, Dinar Sajan, MD, and her team at Health & Psychiatry, with offices across Florida, take a holistic approach to the treatment of OCD and works with you to help you regain control of your life. To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online.

OCD FAQs

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

OCD is a type of anxiety disorder that causes uncontrollable, unreasonable thoughts (obsessive) that may lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsive). The obsessive thoughts and actions often cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.

Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of OCD, but theorize it may occur due to a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. You may be at risk of developing the chronic condition if it runs in your family or you suffer from other mental health conditions, such as depression or other anxiety disorders. A traumatic life event may also trigger OCD.

What are OCD symptoms?

Most people with OCD experience both obsessive and compulsive symptoms. However, it’s possible to experience only obsessive or compulsive symptoms. OCD symptoms include:

Obsessive symptoms

Obsessive OCD symptoms refer to repeated thoughts or urges that lead to anxiety. These may include fear of germ contamination or the need to have items in a specific order.

Compulsive symptoms

Compulsive symptoms refer to the repetitive behaviors that alleviate the anxiety from the obsessive thoughts. These may include constant hand washing or realigning items to place them in your preferred order.

Though it’s not uncommon to fear germs or wash your hands frequently to prevent illness if you have OCD, the obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are excessive and all-consuming. Your thoughts and behaviors may consume hours of your time, and you may not feel any joy after completing your ritualistic action.

How is OCD treated?

At Health & Psychiatry, the team conducts an initial psychiatric evaluation for all new patients seeking treatment for OCD to identify the biological, psychological, and social factors that may contribute to your symptoms. She uses the information gathered during your evaluation to develop individualized treatment plans for the management of OCD based on the severity of your symptoms, as well as your medical and mental health history.

Your treatment plan may include:

Psychotherapy

During psychotherapy, Dr. Sajan and her team use several techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or habit reversal training, to help you understand and control your OCD.

Medication

The team may prescribe serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to support your psychotherapy and alleviate your OCD symptoms.

Dr. Sajan and her experienced team schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and adjust your plan as needed.

If your OCD is taking over your life, contact Health & Psychiatry by phone or request an appointment online for help.

OCD