Obsessive thoughts can come in several varieties. Among the most popular themes for these thoughts are blasphemy, violence, and sex. One thing all obsessions have in common is that they consist of a thought (e.g., “I want to pick up that knife and stab myself”) followed by intense anxiety at having had that thought. “Am I Gay?” is a thought that can create intense anxiety for some people. Another thing obsessions have in common is that it is difficult to completely disprove the fear they describe.
Psychotherapy for OCD
For people suffering from OCD, it can be hard to find help. Being an informed consumer can make all the difference.
It is common for people who think they might have OCD to say, “I’d better see someone,” and go to see a psychotherapist. So far, so good. However, there are different types of therapy for OCD, and evidence suggests that some work better than others. Many people who seek help for obsessions or compulsions with a psychotherapist find that sometimes, after months or years of therapy, their symptoms are still a problem. There can be many possible reasons [Read more…]