Symptoms of OCD
What is the term for repeated, unwanted thoughts or urges in OCD?
Obsessions
What type of therapy helps people with OCD face their fears without doing their rituals?
Exposure and response prevention (Or ERP)
Which part of the brain is thought to be involved with OCD?
The frontal cortex and basal ganglia.
Which healthcare professional is able to diagnose OCD?
A psychologist or psychiatrist.
How can OCD affect a person's schoolwork or job?
It can make it hard to focus on their tasks and the person will have frequent compulsions.
What type of behavior might a person with OCD feel they need to perform repeatedly?
Compulsions
What type of medicine is typically used to treat OCD?
SSRIs, which are a type of antidepressant
Is OCD only triggered and started by traumatic events?
No, OCD has neurological, genetic and environmental causes.
What is the main tool to diagnose OCD?
A clinical interview and self-report questionnaires.
Do people with OCD try to hide their symptoms from others?
Yes, many people are embarrassed by this and try to cover it as best as possible.
Which type of symptom involves the fear of contamination of germs?
Cleanliness OCD
What type of therapy helps people reduce their negative thoughts about OCD?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Or CBT)
Which is NOT a cause of OCD? (Genetics, stress, a physical injury or a heavy lack of sleep?)
Lack of Sleep
Is there a blood test that can find or diagnose OCD?
No, OCD is behavioral and based off symptoms
What is a common social challenge with OCD?
Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships due to spent time on rituals.
What symptom might someone with OCD experience related to arranging objects in a certain order?
Symmetry or Ordering OCD
Can medicine alone cure OCD?
No, therapy is also needed to help
Can OCD be passed down through families?
Yes, genetics can play a huge role in the causes of OCD.
What do doctors look for when diagnosing OCD?
Recurrent obsessions and compulsions that interfere with daily life.
Can OCD cause physical problems over time?
Yes, stress and compulsions can lead to physical strain and fatigue over time.
What is a common emotion experienced by people with OCD when they can't stop their compulsive behavior?
Anxiety
What can a person with OCD do to feel better without medicine or therapy?
Relaxation techniques, deep breathing and stress management.
Which of these may trigger OCD symptoms? (Stressful event, positive life changes or peaceful vacation?)
Stressful event
Can OCD be diagnosed by just one episode of compulsion or behavioral issue?
No, It requires many episodes and symptoms overtime.
Can people with OCD lead normal lives if treated properly?
Yes, with most treatments people see good results and can manage their symptoms.