Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment in Toronto

OCD is a mental health disorder that involves a pattern of recurring and unwanted thoughts, ideas, fears, and sensations (obsessions). In an attempt to curb these thoughts, those with OCD feel the need to perform certain actions repetitively (compulsions). These repetitive behaviours include counting, hoarding, hand washing, cleaning, and checking on things.  

 

Those with OCD suffer under the weight of intrusive and peristent thoughts and rigid behaviours cause significant distress and are time-consuming (taking more than an hour every day), impairing work and social interactions. These compulsions are rooted in the fear of facing serious consequences, whether for themselves or their loved ones, if these actions are not completed. While many people with OCD understand that these intrusive thoughts and behaviours are unreasonable and/or excessive, this distress they feel is something neither logic nor reasoning can resolve. Additionally, even if a person with OCD knows that their obsessive thoughts are not grounded in reality, they find it difficult to disengage from these thoughts or put a stop to their compulsive behaviours.

 

Examples of obsessive thoughts include:

 

• Anxiety over precision, symmetry, or order

• Extreme apprehension if something is not complete

• Distressing sexual thoughts or images

• Fear of contamination by infection, disease, or people

• Fear of causing deliberate harm to themselves or others

 

Examples of compulsions include:

 

• Arranging items in a certain way

• Counting in specific patterns

• Ritualized or excessive hand washing or showering

• Repeatedly cleaning household objects

• Constant checking of doors, locks, or switches

• Avoiding specific people, places, or situations 

 

Around 1% of Canadians will experience an episode of OCD. Women have a slightly higher likelihood of experiencing this disorder compared to men. With most individuals, onset was reported to have occurred in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, there have been a few individuals who experienced the first onset after turning 40 years old.

If you or a loved one are experiencing these thought patterns or compulsive behaviours, get in touch with Shlomo Radcliffe & Associates. We will help you sort out these thoughts and behaviours and provide appropriate treatment. Our therapists will formulate a plan that will allow you to build the skills and develop strategies so you can function well (whether at school or at work), build relationships, and enjoy leisure activities so you can improve your quality of life.