- What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
- What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
- Serenity Mental Health Centers | Desert Ridge Reviews
- How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
- Related Posts
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) triggers repetitive thoughts and compulsions, making individuals feel trapped by these patterns. Serenity Mental Health Centers aims to support patients in managing OCD, facilitating a smoother daily life. Assistance for those battling OCD symptoms is readily available at our Phoenix, AZ office and could be just one phone call.
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treated?
Multiple approaches exist for treating OCD. Prescription medication is generally the most common. We are proud to provide transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine IV therapy as alternatives, especially when medication side effects are problematic.
TMS, a noninvasive procedure, employs magnetic pulses to target brain areas linked to OCD, whereas ketamine therapy, administered intravenously, helps alleviate depressive and anxiety symptoms.
Regardless of the chosen method, our team is committed to supporting every patient in finding the most effective treatment.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
OCD is considered to arise from a blend of genetic, neurological, and environmental influences. Research has linked structural and functional brain anomalies, especially in areas responsible for managing anxiety and impulse behaviors, to the development of OCD. Moreover, having a family history of OCD or other mental health disorders may heighten the risk.
Symptoms of OCD generally manifest as relentless, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that trigger significant anxiety, leading to ritualistic behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) designed to alleviate this stress. Commonly observed symptoms of OCD include:
Obsessions:
- Apprehension about contamination or germs
- Fear of causing harm to oneself or others
- A strong inclination towards symmetry or exactness
- Recurrent thoughts of aggressive or inappropriate actions
Compulsions:
- Rigorous washing or cleaning routines
- Constant checking (e.g., securing doors, verifying appliances are off)
- Methodical organization of items into specific patterns
- Engaging in repetitive mental exercises (e.g., repeating certain words or numbers)
Serenity Mental Health Centers | Desert Ridge Reviews
I am so fortunate to have come to Serenity and gotten help with my mental health and medication concerns. They have truly helped me take care of myself and put me first. Everyone in the office is kind, helpful, and greets you with a warm smile. I would recommend this place for your mental health needs any day of the week. Definitely 5 stars.
I’m delighted to share my positive experience with Dr. Jerrzy Hubert. His kindness, genuine concern, and unwavering support have been instrumental in my journey toward better mental health. I appreciate Dr. Hubert’s expertise and compassionate approach, making each session a source of comfort and progress. As Dr. Hubert embarks on a new chapter with a move, I want to express my sincere best wishes. I will miss his guidance, but I’m truly grateful for the positive impact he had on my well-being. Thank you and good luck!
Our family has been very fortunate to find such caring, kind, and empathetic individuals. From the moment you call them to the very first time, you attend your initial appointment and intake. The staff is supportive, helpful, patient, knowledgeable and extremely caring. Our family is very happy and feel like it is a safe environment. Everyone there loves what’s they do you can feel it. Kaytlyn and Dr. Elias Ruiloba are amzaing. Dr. Ruiloba was patient and explained treatment process, answered questions without making us feel like we are a burden. We are very thankful we are in the care of Serenity Mental Health. I would highly recommend them to families. Marram Saggaf
Dr Prussing is a gem -- truly. Serenity Mental Health has been lucky to have her services. The entire office is incredibly friendly, professional, personable, and quick, but Dr Prussing has exercised prudent and compassionate care the entire time I have worked with her to manage my medication and mental health. I feel heard and seen when I am in an appointment with Dr Prussing; I feel like I have another human being sitting across from me who truly just wants to help another human being if she can. And she has helped me and my family tremendously with her expertise and judgement.
I went here initially to treat my adhd and then I was introduced to TMS and Ketamine therapies so I went back to treat my depression and anxiety. This has been such a great facility to go to for all of the above. The staff is so kind, professional, and goes above and beyond for their patients. These folks truly want their patients to succeed and I can see that. I highly recommend checking this place out. To the staff, thank you all for being the best at what you do! You’ve given me a stellar opportunity and the tools to continue my journey.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
OCD is diagnosed through a detailed evaluation conducted by our board-certified psychiatrists. The process typically includes an in-depth clinical interview where we examine the individual's symptoms, medical history, and overall functioning. We look for signs of obsessions—recurrent, unwanted thoughts—and compulsions—repetitive actions or mental rituals performed to reduce anxiety. Additionally, questionnaires or rating scales may be used to measure symptom severity. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps create a personalized treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age does OCD typically begin?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can start manifesting at any time from early childhood to adulthood. Males often show signs of OCD between the ages of 6 and 15, while females typically begin experiencing symptoms later, usually between the ages of 20 and 29.
Is OCD influenced by genetics?
Studies have shown that OCD can be hereditary, indicating that it can run in families. However, genetics is only one aspect of the disorder's development. OCD generally arises from a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors.
What are the risk factors associated with OCD?
Although the exact causes of OCD are still unknown, several common risk factors have been identified. These include:
- Genetic factors
- Environmental influences
- Brain function irregularities
- Brain structure abnormalities
Reduce Obsessive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors
Individuals suspecting they might have OCD often experience fear, isolation, and frustration. However, assistance is available. Our team at Serenity Mental Health Centers is ready to guide you in managing obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. Embarking on the journey to control OCD begins here — we're ready to support you. Contact our Phoenix, AZ office to get started.