OCD means Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Many believe it’s just about cleanliness. However, OCD is much broader. It leads to worries and habits that feel overwhelming. At Leading Edge Behavioral Health and Wellness, we help people find new ways to feel calm and happy.
What Is OCD?
OCD is when a person has intense worries or fears. These worries can make them do certain things over and over. These things are called “compulsions.” The concerns are called “obsessions.”
- Obsessions are thoughts that keep coming back.
- Compulsions are actions a person feels they must do to feel safe.
For example, someone might think, “What if the door is not locked?” and then check the door many times.
Why It’s Not Just About Cleanliness
Many believe that OCD is all about cleaning. But not everyone with OCD fears germs. Some have different worries, such as:
- Fear of harm to loved ones.
- Concern over making mistakes in academic or work settings.
- They fear punishment if they fail to say the right words.
Such fears can make individuals count, repeat words, or flick lights and stoves several times.
How OCD Affects Daily Life
OCD makes daily tasks feel like a balancing act. People may experience:
- A storm of habits that steals their joy.
- Fatigue that makes playtime seem impossible.
- Anxiety is linked to feelings of sadness or fear, resulting in restless days.
With help, people learn to handle these issues and live as they want.
Signs of OCD in Children and Adults
It is essential to know the signs. Identify these traits within yourself or in someone you value:
- Repeating words or actions even when they seem silly.
- Counting things many times.
- Checking locks, lights, or homework over and over.
- Constantly wanting items to be organized in a particular order.
If you see these signs for more than one hour each day, talk to a caring helper.
How We Help at Leading Edge
Leading Edge Behavioral Health and Wellness offers care that feels like a warm hug. We:
- Take time to listen to your story.
- Make a plan that fits your life.
- Teach skills to quiet worries.
- Guide you along your journey to wellness.
We work in Texas and welcome everyone.
Meet Our Provider: Oluwatobi, PMHNP-BC
Oluwatobi has been a nurse for over 11 years. She is a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health. That means she knows how to help with worries, fears, and feelings. She:
- Has ANCC board certification (PMHNP-BC).
- Helps children, teens, adults, and older adults.
- Listens with kindness and respect.
- Treats patients in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico.
She values your well-being and hopes you feel secure.
Simple Steps to Start Feeling Better
Here are easy things you can try today:
- Deep Breaths: Breathe in for four counts, hold, then breathe out for four.
- Name Your Worry: Give your worry a name, like “Mr. Check.”
- Set a Worry Time: Choose 10 minutes each day to think about your worries.
- Small Steps: If you check the door five times, try checking three times.
These steps can help you feel more in control.
How Therapy Works for OCD
OCD is not your fault. Therapy can help you build new habits. “Exposure and Response Prevention” (ERP) is a helpful type of talk therapy. In ERP, you:
- Tackle concerns gradually, piece by piece.
- Do not do the habit you usually do.
- See that nothing bad happens.
- Feel less worried over time.
Oluwatobi and our team guide you through each step.
Medication and Other Supports
Sometimes medicine can help the brain feel balanced. Our team talks with you about the pros and cons. We also help you find other supports, like:
- Support groups where you share with others.
- Family helps to learn how to be kind and helpful.
- School or work plans so you can learn or work without worry.
Take the First Step Today
You do not have to face OCD alone. Leading Edge Behavioral Health and Wellness is here for you in Texas. We offer:
- Warm and caring therapy
- Expert help from Oluwatobi, PMHNP-BC
- Plans made just for you
Reach out to us or explore our website to kick off your journey. You deserve to feel calm, safe, and happy.
Conclusion
OCD is not just about being clean or organized. It can involve many worries and habits that feel too heavy to bear. At Leading Edge Behavioral Health and Wellness, we help you learn new ways to live without fear. You are not alone. Let us walk with you toward hope and health.
FAQs
What happens in therapy for OCD?
You meet a helper who guides you to face a slight worry and skip the habit. Bit by bit, you worry less.
Can kids get OCD, too?
Yes. If a child checks or counts many times, they may need a caring helper.
