The Pandemic has led to an increase in OCD
A worsening of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) was found to be a high as 65% according to a November 2021 meta-analysis of 21 studies published in Neuroscience & Behavioral Reviews.
Contamination OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder)
While individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder (OCD) often struggle with obsessions and compulsions in a variety of categories, cleaning and contamination are one of the most well-known and common categories.
Examples of OCD Behaviors
Obsessions are unwanted and distressing thoughts, urges or images. They are not pleasurable or voluntary. In fact, the nature of the thoughts may contradict one’s personality or values which only contributes to the distress. Obsessive thoughts, urges, or images repeatedly enter one’s mind and are experienced as intrusive
Family Members or Friends – Supporting Those with OCD
Family and friends may be become quite involved in one’s rituals. When an individual is confronted on their behaviors, the range of experiences can include anxiety, panic attacks, disgust, and feelings of unsettledness. The time spent on compulsions are time consuming or cause significant distress. Avoidance of situations, disruption or delay of plans, and distress within relationships are a few examples.
How does Therapy Help with Anxiety (“I don’t have time for therapy”)
With anxiety disorders being the most common mental illness, impacting approximately 18% of the adult population each year, psychotherapy “talk therapy” can be an effective treatment.
Looking Behind the Lens of High Functioning Anxiety
When you look behind the lens of high-functioning-anxiety, here is what you often find— Type A personalities, over-achievers, and those who hold high standards for perfectionBusy individuals who are productive with their use of time, People who are viewed as successful and accomplished on the outside but often silently struggle on the inside.
Many Forms of Anxiety
Anxiety comes in many forms, impacting people of all ages, background, and abilities. Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern in the United States? Over 40 million adults in the U.S. (19.1%) have an anxiety disorder and approximately 7% of children (ages 3-17) struggle with anxiety.
Three Month Goal Check-In
For those who started therapy at the beginning of the New Year, you will be approaching the 3-month goal check in period. How would you rate your progress?
