A compulsive behavior is an action that a person feels “compelled” or driven to do over and over again. While these compulsive actions may appear to be irrational or pointless, and may even result in negative consequences, the individual experiencing the compulsion feels unable to stop him or herself.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a form of anxiety disorder that causes a recurring, unwanted feeling or idea that a certain action must be done repetitively “no matter what.” While many people compulsively repeat certain behaviors, those behaviors do not interfere with their daily lives and may even help them structure their day in order to complete certain tasks. In persons with OCD, however, these feelings become so consuming that the fear of failing to complete the repeated action causes them to experience anxiety to the point of physical illness.
Even when OCD sufferers know their obsessive actions are unnecessary and even harmful, they find it impossible to even consider the idea of stopping them.Most compulsive behaviors attributed to OCD are extremely time-consuming, cause major distress, and impair work, relationships, or other important functions. Some of the more potentially damaging compulsive behaviors often associated with OCD include eating, shopping, hoarding and animal hoarding, skin picking, gambling, and sex.According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), about 1.2 percent of people have OCD, with slightly more women than men affected. OCD often begins in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood, with 19 being the average age at which disorder develops.Compulsions related to exercising, gambling, shopping, dieting, and eating are well known and rather common among the population. However, there are others who struggle with compulsions that collide with drug or alcohol use. These particular individuals are at an even higher risk for life-altering or even life-threatening events.The compulsions are typically born out of obsessive thoughts. Someone with a compulsive disorder will show signs of obsession that may include actions such as:· Repeated unwanted thoughts or ideas· Aggressive impulses· Aversion to germs or dirt· Fixation on symmetry and order· Thoughts of being harmed or harming loved ones.
Many people dealing with impulsivity and addiction suffer from something called a dual diagnosis. For these people, it is important to join a program where recovery is available for their dual diagnosis. If the program they chose is not capable of treating their symptoms of mental well being, therapy is unlikely to be beneficial since it does not resolve the root cause of behavior. There is however, a need for an expert to deal with the situation and get the person out of this addiction in a healthy manner.
Serene Retreat is one of the leading Addiction and Mental Health Treatment provider based in Malaysia with its branches locally and abroad. For more information about our treatment programs you can reach us via Call/Whatsapp +60 14-687 2268 or visit our website www.sereneretreat.com.my.
