Severe anxiety (any type) can create social problems because the time and energy needed to cope with the anxiety reduces the chance to socialize. Sometimes embarrassment exists because the anxiety problem occurred in front of others. Some problems related to OCD also are directly related to socializing, such as fear of germs.
OCD is often accompanied by other anxieties, including panic attacks. For more information about OCD, click here. Treatment for OCD in most cases will include Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). This is a type of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and is the type of treatment shown through research to be the most effective for treating OCD. Some individuals also take medication for OCD. For information about medication, click here. Treatment may also include other forms of CBT and/or family therapy. Family members often have an important role in the treatment, especially with a child or adolescent.
Other types of problems can be related to OCD. Examples include
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
- Hoarding Disorder
- Perfectionism
- Scrupulosity
- Skin Picking (excoriation)
- Hair Pulling (trichotillomania)
- Some tics or Tourette Syndrome.
Treatment for these disorders will be based on a careful history and other evaluation your symptoms. Some related disorders respond well to a type of behavior therapy called Habit Reversal and/or Skills Training.
Dr. Conlon can help determine the type of anxiety you have, and which type of treatment or a combination of therapies are most likely to be effective. Dr. Conlon is a member of the International OCD Foundation and the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapists. She is a graduate of the IOCDF Behavior Therapy Training Institute.