How is OCD Diagnosed?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) impacts nearly 1 in 40 people across the globe. It’s often characterized by common compulsions and obsessions, including things like excessive hand-washing, unwanted thoughts, rituals, and fears. 

There is no medical test to screen for OCD. If you’re concerned that you might be dealing with it, you can’t walk into your doctor’s office and ask for a blood test or some scan to determine if you have the disorder.

Thankfully, you can receive an official diagnosis from your doctor or a mental health professional when you allow them to learn a bit more about your symptoms. Once you receive a diagnosis, you can start getting the help you deserve.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how OCD is diagnosed. 

Looking at History

Because there is no medical test for OCD, a medical professional will look at a few different things when making a diagnosis. 

First, they’ll want to know more about your medical history. They might even be curious about your family history. While there are a few potential causes of OCD, some studies have suggested that genetics can play a role. If you have a relative with OCD, you might be more likely to develop the condition yourself. 

Some studies have also shown a correlation between childhood trauma and OCD. Abuse or neglect can cause changes in the brain at a young age. Those changes can eventually lead to obsessions and/or compulsions as a way of coping. 

Understanding the Criteria

Once you’ve talked more about your medical history and background, the medical professional you’re working with will determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for an OCD diagnosis. 

Some of the factors they’ll consider include whether you have obsessions and compulsions, how much of your life is defined by those things, and whether any other underlying factors cause those symptoms. It’s not uncommon for people to experience OCD-like symptoms while dealing with other mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder.

If a medical professional determines that nothing else is contributing to your symptoms, they can use the information collected to make an official diagnosis. 

What Happens After You Receive a Diagnosis?

People can be diagnosed with OCD at almost any stage of life. But, no matter when you receive your diagnosis, your first question will likely be something like, “What now?” 

Thankfully, OCD is often manageable with the right help. A combination of therapy and medication is typically the best way to manage your symptoms. You’ll be able to fight back against negative, intrusive thoughts that could be impacting your quality of life.

Additionally, there are things you can do to take care of yourself if you have OCD. Self-care can make symptom management easier. Prioritize getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy diet. 

Learning de-stressing and relaxation techniques can also help you feel more in control of your symptoms. Mindfulness, meditation, and journaling are all great ways to help you relax while prioritizing your mental well-being.

It’s also essential to remember that you’re not alone. Dealing with OCD isn’t always easy. However, leaning on the support system of family and friends or even joining a support group (in person or online) of others who have OCD can help.

Next Steps

If you haven’t officially been diagnosed with OCD but you’ve been struggling with the symptoms for a while, don’t wait any longer. While getting a diagnosis might seem scary, it’s the first step in being able to put a name to what you’re going through, so you can get the help you deserve. Contact me for more information about anxiety or depression therapy, and together, we’ll help you recognize that OCD doesn’t have to define who you are, even after a diagnosis.