Healthy Soch
3 in 100 people suffer from OCD in some form
healthysoch
New Delhi, 23 May 2019:
Recent findings suggest that people who report intense feelings of responsibility are susceptible to developing obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Those who suffer from the condition may not even know they have it. There is a need to raise awareness that OCD symptoms can interfere with people’s day-to-day functioning or cause distress.
OCD is a common, chronic and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over.
Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee, Dr K K Aggarwal, President, HCFI, said, “Addiction is commonly associated with substance abuse such as alcohol, tobacco and drugs. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has listed different reasons (as below) for why people take drugs: to feel good: feeling of pleasure, ‘high’; to feel better: to relieve stress; to do better: improve performance; curiosity; and peer pressure. However, it is not just drugs but also certain behaviors that can be categorized as addictive. OCD falls under the latter. People suffering from this condition have uncontrollable, recurring thoughts and behaviors, and feel the urge to repeat an action over and over again – mounting to an addiction with one or more habits. When this behavior starts interfering with one’s daily life and routine in a significant manner, it is time to seek help.”
People with OCD can’t control their actions and thoughts; believe that life cannot continue as normal while the imbalance remains; attach extraordinary significance to their thoughts; need constant reassurance; doubt everything; and focus on exactness and order.
Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, who is also the Group Editor-in-Chief of IJCP, said, “The cause of OCD usually lies in a serotonin imbalance – this chemical is produced in the body for the nerve cells and the brain to function at their optimum. It is imperative to treat and manage OCD in a timely manner failing which it can even lead to depression over time. One of the common modes of treatment for OCD is psychotherapy. Apart from this cognitive behavioral therapy can help overcome certain faulty beliefs.”
Some tips from HCFI
- Eat healthyGut health is an important factor in preventing many behavioral issues including anxiety and obsessive actions. Eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Avoid stressTechniques such as yoga and meditation can help you avoid unwanted stress. Try and lead a parasympathetic lifestyle.
- Exercise regularlyPhysical activity for about 30 minutes every day is said to boost the feel-good hormones and provide fuel to the brain. This will help you focus better and reduce anxiety.
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