What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as simply an annoyance characterized by repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions). However, the roots of OCD can be deeply intertwined with trauma. Understanding this connection can be crucial for effective treatment and healing. It is not always necessary to have a diagnosis of OCD. Many people have OCD tendencies, such as intrusive thoughts or feelings, which significantly interfere in their lives and lead to the need to complete compulsions in order to alleviate the stress these thoughts and feelings cause.
What is Trauma?
Trauma is typically defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. This can range from acute events, such as accidents or violent attacks, to chronic stressors like ongoing neglect or abuse. Traumatic experiences can disrupt a person's emotional state, leading to an inability to regulate their emotions. This can lead to feeling that they are chronically in a state of fight, flight or freeze.
The Link Between Trauma and OCD
Research indicates that individuals with OCD (or OCD tendencies) often have a history of trauma. The impact of trauma can manifest in heightened anxiety and fear, which may trigger obsessive thoughts. Trauma may lead to a need for control, and in the case of OCD, this compulsion to control one’s environment can become an overwhelming cycle. The compulsions provide temporary relief from anxiety, creating a vicious cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions.
Treatment Approaches
Addressing both trauma and OCD requires a comprehensive approach. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), such as Inference Based CBT (I-CBT), is an effective treatment approach for OCD. When trauma is involved, integrating a trauma focused approach, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), can help individuals process their traumatic experiences alongside their OCD symptoms. I am trained in both I-CBT and EMDR and find that these two approaches work well together to help treat both trauma and OCD symptoms.
Conclusion
Recognizing the relationship between trauma and OCD is essential for understanding and treating the condition. By addressing both issues in treatment, individuals can work towards healing and reclaiming their lives from the grips of obsessive-compulsive behaviors. If you are struggling with both trauma and OCD type symptoms contact me to book a free consult to see if a combination of I-CBT and EMDR would be effective to help treat your symptoms.
