OCD - How It Can Be Diagnosed?

OCD is not a result of some traumatic event, but it is an anxiety-related disorder. OCD is a concern not only with cleaning and tidiness but it is about a range of things. Checking out things repetitively; obsessional thoughts about contamination, magical or religious things; and obsession with intrusive thoughts are relatively common in OCD. However, there are many other thoughts and activities associated with OCD. Some people may suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder to such a degree that their daily life activities and social interaction are negatively affected. These thoughts make the person feel distressed and anxious.

A psychologist, psychiatrist, or other licensed mental health professional may perform a psychological evaluation to diagnose the obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is usually the first line of treatment for OCD patients. The goal of this therapy is to educate and guide patients to face their fear and reduce anxiety without performing the ritual behaviors.

Both antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are used for the treatment of OCD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class of drugs used as antidepressants, are the most frequently used drugs for the patients of OCD. SSRIs are used as first-line treatment for OCD with moderate to severe impairment. While for mild functional impairment, they are used as second-line treatment drugs.