Obsessional Thinking Treatment Adelaide
What is Obsessional thinking?
Obsessional thinking is often paired with a repeated behaviour or ritual to reduce the anxiety that accompanies the thinking, a condition called obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD.
What are the signs?
Common obsessive thoughts are:
- contamination from dirt or germs
- concern about personal safety or safety of others
- concern with order or symmetry
- concern over aggressive or sexual thoughts
Common compulsive behaviours are:
- cleaning, washing hands, scrubbing household surfaces
- checking if doors are locked or appliances are switched off.
- placing objects in order or in symmetry
- reciting or counting
Causes of obsessional thinking
In some cases, a major life event such as a relationship breakdown, a major health scare or even the birth of a child might be associated with the onset of obsessional thinking. In other cases, the onset can be gradual with no obvious trigger.
There is a familial dimension to OCD, as sufferers are more likely to have a family member who has had this condition. Perfectionism is an unhelpful thinking style which is thought to increase a person’s vulnerability to OCD.
How a psychologist can help
After understanding the factors that potentially are involved in the onset and maintenance of the person’s response, the psychologist will develop a treatment plan. Treatment usually involves exposure and response prevention, accompanied by learning more adaptive ways to manage stress and lifestyle changes. The psychologist may also suggest involving partners, family members or a friend in the treatment plan.
