Psychofarm Podcast What Is OCD? How to Understand It, Recognize It, and Treat It
Jul 8, 2025
Dive into the complex world of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder as the hosts unpack its DSM-5 criteria and the challenges in diagnosing it. They explore the neurobiological roots behind compulsive behaviors, drawing parallels with addiction. The importance of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is emphasized, alongside effective medication strategies. Personal anecdotes add depth, shedding light on the nuances of OCD while providing practical guidance for clinicians and individuals alike.
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Core DSM-5 OCD Features
- OCD involves intrusive thoughts coupled with compulsions to neutralize them, which distinguishes it from simple anxiety.
- The compulsion is usually excessive and aimed at reducing distress not rational prevention of feared events.
OCD Symptoms vs Disorder
- OCD symptoms can be normal, but OCD proper develops from progression of symptoms becoming rigid and disabling.
- OCD diagnostic cutoff depends on distress, duration, and impact on functioning, distinguishing it from developmental rituals or mild symptoms.
Anatomy of OCD Loop
- OCD cycles start with a trigger leading to intrusive thoughts, followed by catastrophic appraisal and intense distress.
- Compulsions relieve distress temporarily but reinforce the cycle through negative reinforcement involving amygdala dysfunction.
