Living with Severe OCD: Symptoms and Management

There are several preconceived notions about OCD, and most of it is about being organised and tidy. While this may be true, the real reality is more devastating than just feeling the need to clean. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-lasting mental health condition where intrusive thoughts trigger repetitive actions known as compulsions.

What is Severe OCD?

As previously mentioned, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a persistent mental health condition characterized by intrusive obsessions that drive individuals to engage in compulsive behaviors they feel compelled to perform. When it becomes severe, it starts hampering one’s day-to-day activities, affects one's relationships, and reduces the quality of life as well. The symptoms may be mild at first but usually exacerbate over the years. Although "severe" OCD isn't an official diagnosis, individuals often perceive their symptoms as severe and deeply affecting their lives. Neglected OCD can also escalate, resulting in intensified symptoms.

Symptoms of Severe OCD

Symptoms often start in the early years, as early as the teen years. The two main symptoms include obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessive Thoughts

Obsessive thoughts usually have a theme about the need for cleanliness or symmetry, and other usually irrational things. The desire to not touch things (or having things be touched), anxious thoughts when things aren't in a certain way, thinking about tasks that have been checked off already,

Compulsive Behaviors

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that one finds very difficult to ignore. It may be thought that performing the task will reduce the anxiety caused, but the effect is only temporary—and will definitely return again. This can be for various facets, such as with cleaning, counting, washing, a constant need for reassurance, arranging things in a certain way, repeatedly checking on things even if they have already been checked several times, etc.

Other OCD symptoms

There are usually other effects that are felt in various facets of life as well. One may not be able to reach places in time, one may not be able to attend social events, and relationships may falter. One often has a deep sense of guilt, which pervades, and the more one tries to control it, the more it goes out of hand. In certain worst-case scenarios, it may lead to suicidal attempts as well.

Examples of Severe OCD

In certain cases, one may feel that they are aware of their thoughts being irrational, but are unable to stop them in any way. It is also seen that some people are likely to feel that their obsessions and compulsions are a normal way of life and being, and hence give in to the delusion.

What causes Severe OCD?

There is no definite known cause for OCD. However, some research has shown that there are factors such as genetics, environment, and brain structure that can lead to OCD.

Genetics

If one has a direct relative, i.e., a parent or sibling with OCD, then one is more likely to develop OCD at some point—especially at a younger age. However, the exact genes are not yet identified.

Environment

Trauma is also a cause of OCD. Traumatic life events in one’s childhood can lead to a person developing OCD later in their teen years or adult life. Some children are seen to develop OCD after streptococcal infections.

Brain structure and function

Individuals with OCD exhibit heightened neural activity in the circuit connecting the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, and the nucleus accumbens, a key component of the brain's reward system. Additionally, hormones like serotonin, glutamate, and dopamine might play a role in this condition.

Are there additional conditions linked to severe OCD symptoms?

Co-morbid conditions continue to exist with all kinds of mental health conditions, so OCD is no different. One can have other conditions such as anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse disorder as well as tic disorder.

How is Severe OCD diagnosed?

The DSM-5 has put down major diagnostic criteria for OCD:

Existence of obsessions, compulsions, or both
Obsessions and compulsions occupy more than one hour daily or disrupt daily functioning
Symptoms are not linked to substance abuse or physical health issues
Symptoms are not attributable to other mental health disorders

Risk factors of Severe OCD

There are certain factors that may increase the risk of causing OCD, which include:

Family history

Having parents or other family members with the disorder can increase the likelihood of developing OCD. The exact genes are not known yet, but the likelihood is higher.

Stressful life events

If there are stressful and traumatic life events that one is going through, that can also increase the likeliness of developing OCD. This reaction may cause the intrusive thoughts, rituals, and emotional distress seen in OCD.

Other mental health disorders

OCD may be related to other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, or tic disorders. And kind of pre-existing conditions can affect the intensity of the symptoms of OCD.

Living with Severe OCD

If one gets diagnosed with OCD, and if their conditions are seen as severe, it usually plays a large part in their life and its smooth functioning. Living with it can be challenging but not unmanageable.

Daily Challenges

One spends excessive time taking part in ritualistic behaviors. In certain cases, health issues may crop up, such as contact dermatitis, from frequent hand washing. One’s quality of life is also seen to take a dip.

Impact on Relationships and Work

One may have a tough going to work or school because of their obsessive-compulsive tendencies. One’s relationships can also take a toll, and the other people in one’s life are seen to be affected by it as well.

Coping Strategies

One can follow certain coping strategies to deal with OC, such as maintaining an OCD journal to keep track of the things that can trigger. Refocusing one’s attention can help divert the situation. Physical activities such as exercising, walking around for a bit, singing, petting an animal, etc., can help at times. Keeping external stressing factors at a bare minimum can help the stress when caused by OCD.

Is Severe OCD Dangerous?

It is dangerous in the sense if it inhibits one’s daily functioning, then it is certainly inconvenient, and will become a problem in the long run if not addressed immediately. In certain worst-case scenarios, the person may be pushed towards suicidal thoughts, which is a dangerous place to be in.

Treatment and Management

Effective treatments for OCD exist, but they demand patience as improvement may take several weeks to months to become noticeable.

Professional Therapies

Even though each case is different, one is most likely to be prescribed a mixture of medication and therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is usually the most effective, wherein one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are analyzed and treated. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP or EX/RP) is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) where the therapist gradually exposes individuals to their feared stimuli, aiding in the development of coping skills.

Medication and Surgery

In most cases, the doctor will prescribe a low dose in the beginning and increase it as and when needed. It usually takes some time to find the right medicine and see which one it is that works. Common medications for treating OCD encompass selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants.

Self-Care and Support Networks

There are certain ways one can help oneself to manage their anxiety. Engaging in physical exercise, practicing deep breathing, and participating in meditation can assist in alleviating stress. Joining a support group can help, where one can talk to people who have the same issues and can truly get it.

New treatment options

Recent surgical interventions for severe OCD are typically reserved for cases where traditional medications and therapies have failed. However, they come with notable risks. Deep brain stimulation involves the surgical implantation of electrical leads into precise brain regions. Subsequently, a neurostimulator sends signals to regulate abnormal brain activity.

Strategies for Preventing Severe OCD

While there's no guaranteed method to prevent obsessive-compulsive disorder, seeking treatment promptly can potentially mitigate its progression, preventing it from worsening and interfering with daily activities and routines.

Managing Severe OCD Effectively with Cadabams

At Cadabam’s, we take our mental health very seriously, and we have the right kind of professionals who can make the healing process easier. With the right kind of treatment and facilities, one can see an effective diminishing of symptoms. Anyone experiencing symptoms of OCD should consider talking with a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Rehabilitation Centre can help you with its team of specialized experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage their OCD. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.

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FAQs

1. What happens when OCD is severe?

As mentioned before, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition in which uncontrollable obsessions lead to compulsive behaviors. When it becomes severe, it starts hampering one’s day-to-day activities, affects one's relationships, and reduces the quality of life as well. The symptoms may be mild at first but usually exacerbate over the years. Although "severe" OCD isn't an official diagnosis, individuals often perceive their symptoms as severe and deeply affecting their lives. Neglected OCD can also escalate, resulting in intensified symptoms.

2. How does OCD affect a person's life?

3. How do you live with someone with severe OCD?

While therapy typically forms a crucial component of treatment, there are actions you can take to assist in managing your symptoms and reducing anxiety. Taking stock of how things really are, by asking hard-hitting questions, can be a benchmark to start. Taking count of unmet needs and addressing them straightforwardly can also help. Conversation, open and honest, can go a long way.

4. How do you deal with severe OCD?

There are certain ways one can help oneself to manage their anxiety. Physical exercise, deep breathing, and meditation help ease stress. Joining a support group can help, as it allows one to talk to people who have the same issues and can truly get it. This is ideally alongside medication and rigorous psychotherapy, usually in the form of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

5. What happens if OCD is left untreated?

It is dangerous in the sense if it inhibits one’s daily functioning, then it is certainly inconvenient and will become a problem in the long run if not addressed immediately. Over time, the symptoms usually worsen, and In certain worst-case scenarios, the person may be pushed towards suicidal thoughts, which is a dangerous place to be in.