It is common for people to have unwanted thoughts now and then, but the diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) requires that you meet several specific criteria.
Symptoms of OCD can be highly disruptive and make daily life challenging. If you think you may have OCD and are seeking OCD treatment in the Jackson area, we encourage you to reach out to our mental health providers at our Flowood, Vicksburg, Ridgeland, and Byram locations to schedule an appointment and explore your treatment options.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes chronic symptoms. Symptoms of OCD are characterized by uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions) that trigger behaviors (compulsions). This means that you feel the urge to repeat these behaviors over and over again.
Obsessions can trigger additional mental health conditions, such as anxiety or distress. Common obsessions include a fear of germs, a need for symmetry, or intrusive thoughts that might involve aggression. The repetitive behaviors that you feel compelled to perform in response to these thoughts are typically aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared event.
For example, compulsions can include excessive or repetitive behaviors, such as:
However, this relief is only temporary. OCD is believed to involve a combination of neurological, behavioral, genetic, cognitive, and environmental factors. This is why successful treatment for OCD requires a multifaceted approach. If left untreated, OCD can affect many areas of your life, including work, personal relationships, and daily functioning.
Our team will work with you to develop a comprehensive and customized approach to manage your symptoms. This will begin with an assessment of your condition to rule out any underlying medical condition that may affect or exacerbate your symptoms.
Medications can help reduce co-occurring symptoms of OCD, such as depression and anxiety. The most commonly prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are primarily used to treat depression.
If medication is part of your treatment plan, our providers will carefully monitor for side effects and prescribe the lowest effective dose to manage your symptoms. Through ongoing medication management, we ensure your treatment is tailored to your needs. Learn more about Medication Management here.
When medications and therapy aren’t enough, advanced treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can provide additional relief. TMS is an FDA-approved therapy that uses gentle electromagnetic pulses to target brain areas linked to OCD symptoms. This non-invasive treatment has been proven safe and effective, particularly for individuals who haven’t responded to other forms of care.
We also recommend lifestyle changes to help reduce stress and improve your overall health. Your mental health is often a reflection of your overall physical health. While these strategies may not eliminate your symptoms, they can improve your quality of life and help reduce triggers that can exacerbate your symptoms. For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce your symptoms.
At Precise Mind, we utilize a holistic approach to deliver exceptional results. Our team will work with you to determine the most effective OCD treatment for your needs and ensure you are well-informed throughout your treatment.
We understand that OCD affects everyone differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment for patients in the Jackson area. Our compassionate team will create a personalized plan based on your unique symptoms and needs, addressing environmental and behavioral factors that may contribute to your condition. OCD can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact our offices in Flowood, Vicksburg, Ridgeland, or Byram today to learn how we can help you regain control and find hope for the future.