Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is a mental health condition that causes intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Many may not realize how many youth and adults live with OCD and how symptoms impact their quality of life. So what exactly is OCD, and how often does OCD occur?
OCD is a widely diagnosed mental health condition. People who have obsessive-compulsive disorder experience symptoms called obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are frequent, persistent ideas and thoughts that dramatically affect the quality of life. There are many types of obsessions, and each person experiences them differently.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) lists several subtypes of OCD. The five most commonly referenced in mental health treatment settings in North Carolina are described below.
Obsessions about germs and sickness characterize contamination OCD. Someone with this type of OCD experiences obsessions about germs, bacteria, spoiled foods, and other contaminants (perceived or actual) that could cause illness. They worry about their health and spreading sickness to others.
One of the most common co-occurring disorders in OCD is anxiety, with roughly three-quarters of adults with OCD also having an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Over 50% with OCD are also diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder, and around 30% have a tic disorder, such as Tourette syndrome.6
Our qualified and experienced team of medical professionals will conduct a psychiatric evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan. We offer a variety of treatment options for OCD, with the most common and effective being psychotherapy and medication.
One specific type of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is proven highly effective for treating various mental health concerns, including mental health disorders like OCD. We also offer integrative wellness coaching that focuses on physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
If you live in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area and are searching for mental health treatment – or if you’re available for telehealth treatment – contact AIM today. Let us help you learn more about OCD and take the first steps toward your recovery.
Gregory Ng is the CEO of Brooks Bell. In his nearly 25 years in marketing, Greg has created innovative solutions leading to digital and cognitive transformations for the biggest high-tech, retail and financial brands in the world. Greg adds knowledge in marketing strategy, content production, and brand awareness to the AHV advisory board.
Hunt Broyhill holds several positions within the Broyhill family offices and serves as President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of BMC Fund and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill Asset Management. Hunt brings valuable experience in capital allocation, real estate, and investor relations to the AHV advisory board.
Alan Hughes was formerly the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. In addition to BCBS, Alan held officer positions in both operations and technology at GE Commercial Finance, Deutsche Bank, and American Express. Alan brings a unique combination of efficient process design and technological problem solving to the AHV advisory board.
Lynn is the CEO of Broadstep. Previously, Lynn held various roles in both healthcare and finance where she oversaw multi-site, multi-state organizations within primary care, acute and chronic services, hospitals, and pharmacies. Lynn brings valuable experience in healthcare leadership, recruiting, and growth strategy to the AHV advisory board.
John Roos is the retired Senior Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Under Roos’s tenure, the company’s revenue grew from $1.5 billion to $9.5 billion, while adding 1 million members. John brings valuable experience in growth strategy, enterprise sales, and provider contracting to the AHV advisory board.
Dr. Hendree Jones is the Executive Director of UNC-Horizons and an internationally recognized expert in behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children. Dr. Jones has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1994 and has over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Jones is an advisor to the UN, WHO, SAMHSA, ASAM, and ACOG through which she consults throughout the United States and internationally. Dr. Jones brings valuable experience in grant writing, research, and healthcare administration to the AHV advisory board.
Brad is the CEO Emeritus for BCBSNC and Chair of the BCBSNC Foundation. He served as Gov. Jim Hunt’s general counsel and is a past chair of the UNC Board of Governors. Brad serves on numerous public and private boards and is a lifelong North Carolinian with degrees from Appalachian State, Wake Forest, and Duke. He brings valuable experience in healthcare, law, higher education, and politics.
Jake Summers is a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to bringing the energy of change to existing healthcare business models and making higher quality healthcare more accessible. Jake co-founded a mango farming/export company in Cambodia and serves as an advisor for a number of small businesses. Jake is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine and is the Development Director and a Partner of Green Hill.
Tripp Johnson is a serial healthcare entrepreneur who’s dedicated his post-military professional life to serving young adults. He is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine, Advaita Health Ventures, and Green Hill Recovery. Tripp is passionate about making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible through innovative business models and technology-focused solutions.