Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Suffers usually experience obsessions in the forms of intrusive thoughts, pictures, or urges that their mind can’t release, or compulsions that prevent them from moving through their days freely without carrying out certain types of rituals, being overly aware of their bodies or thoughts, or experiencing correcting thoughts. Understanding more about the OCD triggers that bring on this disorder can help with OCD management. Read on to learn more about OCD triggers and how they can be managed.
What Causes OCD?
OCD can develop for a number of reasons, but common OCD triggers include:
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- Experiencing a traumatic event: A person may develop OCD because of a painful childhood experience like abuse or bullying, having a parent with OCD-type anxieties and compulsive behavior, because of ongoing stress or anxiety, or from pregnancy or giving birth. Theories show that sometimes these types of OCD can manifest because of a need to cope or because of the mental health issues they inspire.
- Personality type: Sometimes people who are neat or meticulous can develop OCD.
- Biology: Though studies about how genetic factors and parts of the brain are involved in OCD remain inconclusive, some theories have suggested that OCD may be a result of a lack of serotonin.
OCD Management: Self Care and Treatment Options
One of the most important things to consider when dealing with OCD is its effect on your mental health. While OCD triggers aren’t necessarily something you can control, there are ways to cope with your condition through OCD management.
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- Connect with others: Whether you connect with close friends and family or attend a support group for people with OCD, spending time with people who understand you will help you with OCD management.
- Take care of your body to take care of your mind: Getting enough sleep, exercising, or paying attention to your diet can make a big difference when you’re dealing with the symptoms of OCD. Being well-rested and eating well help to balance your mood and energy levels, which has a lasting impact on your mental health.
- Try Self Help: Self-help resources like websites and books can help you develop skills that will help you to manage your OCD symptoms. Many are based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is known to be effective and lasting for many people.
Most importantly, though, is to not be afraid to ask for help and seek professional treatment if your OCD management feels overwhelming. There are many resources out there to help people with OCD to overcome their symptoms and enjoy positive mental health.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
If you or a loved one are struggling with the OCD, contact Bluewater Psychiatry for professional help.