I know it's a thought. Why do I keep needing to make sure?
You check the locked door. You walk away, but doubt soon returns. What if you overlooked something? You go back and check again. For a moment, things feel calmer.
You understand that another check is not needed. Yet it is hard to leave without it. Simply telling yourself “I already know” is not enough.
This is one example of difficulties in OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is not about liking order. It involves intrusive thoughts, images or impulses and actions intended to reduce tension.
Not all these actions are visible. Sometimes you repeat words in your mind or count according to a particular rule. Nothing appears to be happening from the outside. You find it hard to focus on anything else.
The content of intrusive thoughts can be particularly difficult to say aloud. It may concern harm, sexuality or religion. An unwanted thought alone does not mean an intention to act. Distinguishing these experiences is important during a consultation.
Not every recurring thought or check means OCD. How much time they take, how much tension they cause and how they affect everyday life matter.
If you leave home increasingly late because checking takes a long time, mention it during the consultation. Also mention actions performed in your mind. They are equally important for understanding the problem.
OCD treatment can include cognitive behavioural therapy with exposure and response prevention, or ERP. This involves gradually facing situations that cause anxiety without performing compulsions. The plan is developed with a specialist. Medication is also needed in some cases.
Advice to “stop thinking about it” is not a treatment for OCD. If these difficulties take up your time and interfere with life, it is worth seeking help from someone experienced in working with this disorder.
Hanna Swierczewska
Psychologist, psychotraumatologist, psycho-oncologist
If you would like to talk about your situation, you are welcome to book an online consultation.
Comments