What is the Correlation Between OCD & Depression?

One of the more daunting and under-discussed aspects of mental health is co-morbidity. It’s quite common for more than one disorder to be present in a person, but it’s not always easy to identify. This reality can make it challenging to properly diagnose and design treatment priorities. For example, it’s not unusual for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to be associated with depressive disorders. 

As many as half the people with OCD will also be diagnosed with depression. Thus, it makes sense to explore the correlation between these two conditions. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the basics.

OCD & Depression: What Comes First?

The answer is not crystal clear, but empirically, the vast majority of instances involve OCD arising before depression. Considering the distress OCD causes daily, this trend is not a surprise. Yes, depression can potentially come first and rarely do the two disorders emerge simultaneously. But, for the purposes of this conversation, the evidence currently points toward depression as part of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Does This Mean OCD Causes Depression?

Sometimes, yes. OCD symptoms present a relentless challenge. Obsessive, intrusive thoughts cause anxiety, guilt, and shame. Compulsive actions negatively impact all aspects of your life. Living with this is enough to bring anyone to a depressive state.

Meanwhile, however, a clear cause of OCD has not yet been identified. As of now, the following factors are being explored:

• Specific issues within the brain

• Genetics and family history 

• Childhood trauma

• Streptococcal infection

Correlation Between Obsessions, Compulsions, and Symptoms 

Obsessions

The O in OCD is used to describe those unwanted thoughts that kick the cycle into effect. These disturbing intrusions can completely shift a person’s self-perception. Over time, this process lands the person with OCD on the road to depression. How much fear, anxiety, and rumination can they take? This highlights why treatment is critical. When someone with OCD has confidence that they can manage their obsessions, they are less likely to experience despair. 

Compulsions

Compulsions are the rituals people with OCD perform in the name of easing anxiety. They know the actions are not logical, but if they can prevent the intrusive thoughts for a while, that’s all the logic they need.  

The act of performing compulsions is energy-intensive and time-consuming. Compulsions are typically obvious, too. Hence, depression enters the picture when you calculate how much this disorder hampers daily functioning and brings on negative attention. 

OCD and Depression: Overlapping Symptoms

• Both disorders are associated with negative self-beliefs

• You’ll notice that your thought patterns can exacerbate symptoms 

• OCD and depression both decrease one’s daily functioning, relationships and interactions, and general mood

• Both have similar treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, mindfulness, and physical activity like yoga

OCD and Depression: Crucial Differences 

Of course, each case can be incredibly unique, but general trends exist. For example, OCD has hallmark signs like repetitive thoughts, behaviors, and tic disorders. None of these are associated with depression. 

Self-Help Tips For People With OCD and Depression

• Address the OCD symptoms before taking on the depression. This typically improves the co-existing depression.

• Physical activity has been found to ease symptoms for both disorders. 

• Do not self-isolate. It’s tempting to withdraw, but you need human connection and love now more than ever. 

The bottom line, however, involves finding a mental health professional with whom you have a good rapport. As daunting as the OCD-depression is, it can be managed, and you can reclaim so much more control over your life. The key is to be consistent and compliant with the treatment plan. If you or someone you know is struggling with these co-existing conditions, let’s talk soon.

Learn more about OCD Treatment.

Navigating Turmoil: Coping with Anxiety in a Chaotic World

Recent years have seen a surge in turmoil, spanning from political unrest to wars, instability in democracies, and the harrowing scenes of mass death that inundate our newsfeeds. These realities profoundly affect our daily lives, breeding anxiety and uncertainty. In light of this pervasive reality, let's explore effective strategies for coping and finding resilience amidst the chaos. By acknowledging our emotions, setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and seeking support, we can navigate these multifaceted challenges with strength, determination, and resilience. Maintaining these qualities not only helps us cope but also empowers us to stand up for what we believe is right and to advocate and work towards a more equitable, just, and peaceful world.

Acknowledge Your EMOTIONS

In the face of overwhelming turmoil, it's essential to acknowledge and validate our emotions. Fear, anger, sadness - each emotion carries weight and deserves recognition. Embracing emotional awareness not only helps us cope with immediate challenges but also fosters empathy and understanding towards others, laying the groundwork for building a more compassionate and inclusive society. By recognizing and embracing our emotions, we begin the journey of reclaiming our agency and choosing resilience over despair.

Set Boundaries: Safeguarding Mental Well-being

With constant exposure to distressing news and images, safeguarding our mental well-being becomes paramount. Setting boundaries around media consumption is not just about limiting screen time; it's about protecting our minds from being overwhelmed by negativity and despair. By prioritizing our mental health and setting healthy boundaries, we take a proactive stance against hopelessness, empowering ourselves to engage in constructive action and advocacy for positive change.

Practice Self-Care: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Spirit

Amidst chaos, prioritizing self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. Nurturing our mind, body, and spirit is essential for maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. When we prioritize self-care, we not only strengthen our own well-being but also model resilience for others. By investing in ourselves, we cultivate the strength and energy needed to contribute meaningfully to our communities and advocate for a better world.

Seek Support: Cultivating Connection and Community

Navigating turmoil alone can be daunting, if not impossible. Cultivating connection and community is key to weathering the storm. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for understanding and validation. Lean on your social network for comfort and perspective, knowing that collective solidarity strengthens our resolve to address systemic injustices and work towards a more equitable and peaceful world. Through mutual support and solidarity, we affirm our commitment to resilience and hope, rejecting the isolating grip of despair.

Consider Therapy: Harnessing the Power of Professional Support

Therapy offers a unique opportunity for healing and growth in times of turmoil. A skilled therapist can provide a safe and supportive space for processing complex emotions, developing coping strategies, and fostering resilience. By investing in our mental health and seeking professional support when needed, we demonstrate our willingness to confront challenges head-on and cultivate a mindset of resilience and hope. Through therapy, we equip ourselves with the tools and resilience needed to navigate uncertainty and advocate for positive change in our lives and communities.

As we navigate through turmoil and uncertainty, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. However, it's crucial to remember that hope is not passive; it's a choice we make each day. Despite the challenges we face, we have the power to cultivate resilience, advocate for change, and work towards a better community. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and embracing resilience, we can not only weather the storms but also emerge stronger and more compassionate individuals and communities.

Learn more about Anxiety Treatment.

4 Ways to Navigate Depression After Job Loss

“Job loss” covers a lot of ground. For some, it could involve a traumatic firing. Other folks quit, get slowly downsized, or they opt to retire. In today’s gig economy, it’s not rare to have a freelance position run its course. Regardless of the scenario, job loss involves change, and with change often comes stress. 

After all, job loss typically means more than lost income. Our jobs contribute mightily to our social life and daily structure. Also, depending on the position, what you do for work can become an identity of sorts. Any of this can result in feelings of grief that can develop into depression. 

What to Watch For After Job Loss

It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions when a big job-related change occurs. But if your overwhelming emotion is sadness that lasts almost all day for at least two weeks, depression could be emerging. Here are some common red flags to watch for:

• Sleeping much more than usual

• Changes in appetite in either direction

• Losing interest in activities that once brought you pleasure

• Strong feelings of guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and self-blame

• Feeling isolated and hopeless 

• Feeling lost without the structure and identity of a job

• Putting no effort into making changes to remedy the situation (including looking for a new job) 

• Neglecting personal hygiene

• Having thoughts of self-harm

To repeat, if a couple of weeks have passed and signs like this remain present or are getting stronger, it’s advised that you ask for help. In the meantime, you can engage in self-help steps that have been found to scale back the severity of symptoms. 

4 Ways to Navigate Depression After Job Loss

None of the suggestions below are meant to replace the input of a medical professional, but again, they can have a positive complementary impact.

1. Emphasize Self-Care 

In a depressive state, it can be challenging to stay focused on taking care of yourself. So, keep it simple but keep it consistent. You’ll want to focus on basics like healthy eating/drinking choices, getting into a steady sleep rhythm, taking part in daily physical activity, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and breathing exercises. 

2. Feel What You Need to Feel 

Grief does not subside by suppressing it. Accept the feeling of loss and let your emotions happen. Think of it as giving yourself permission to mourn what is gone. If you find this to be difficult, you can seek out a support group both online and in person.

3. Use This As An Opportunity to Explore and Reinvent

In a profit-driven society, our job can be a form of social credit. When a job loss occurs, you can initially feel disoriented. But it’s a golden opportunity to explore what is meaningful to you and how to harness that drive. We are so much more than our primary source of income. 

Some suggestions: 

• Consult That Bucket List: What have you always wanted to try? This is an excellent time to explore new paths.

• Get Creative: Creativity facilitates expression — and healing.

• Do Unto Others: Depression can make anyone feel aimless and stuck in a prison of their own minds. When stuck inward, go outward. Giving time and energy to others can be an important antidote to the isolation and hopelessness of depression, and, for some, can even lead to new career paths.

4. Don’t Underestimate Depression

This is crucial. Everyone gets sad at times or experiences the blues after a tough break. Depression is a diagnosable mental health disorder. Recovering from depression requires more than self-help. Don’t downplay what you feel after a job loss if what you feel is not going away.

If job loss has you struggling and feeling overwhelmed, we should talk. Let’s schedule a free and confidential consultation at your earliest convenience. 

Learn more about Depression Treatment.

What is Illness Anxiety Disorder?

In a world where health concerns loom large in our minds, it's not uncommon for individuals to experience worry or fear regarding their well-being. These concerns, though understandable, can sometimes take on a life of their own, overshadowing daily routines and casting doubt on what should be moments of peace. This is where Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD), formerly known as Hypochondriasis, comes into play. In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricacies of Illness Anxiety Disorder, exploring its symptoms, causes, and treatment options to provide a better understanding of this often-misunderstood condition.

Understanding Illness Anxiety Disorder:

Illness Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive worry or preoccupation with having a serious illness, despite minimal or no symptoms. Individuals with IAD often misinterpret bodily sensations as signs of severe illness, leading to persistent anxiety and distress. This excessive health-related anxiety can significantly impair functioning and quality of life, as individuals may engage in frequent health-related behaviors such as excessive doctor visits, medical tests, or online research in an attempt to alleviate their fears.

Symptoms of Illness Anxiety Disorder:

The symptoms of Illness Anxiety Disorder can vary widely, but they often include:

1. Preoccupation with health concerns or fears of having a serious illness.

2. Excessive worry or anxiety about physical sensations or symptoms.

3. Frequent checking of the body for signs of illness or seeking reassurance from medical professionals, family, friends, or loved ones.

4. Avoidance of situations or activities that may trigger health-related anxiety.

5. Impaired functioning in daily life due to health worries, which may include difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep patterns, or avoidance of social activities.

Treatment Options for Illness Anxiety Disorder:

Fortunately, Illness Anxiety Disorder is a treatable condition, and there are a range effective treatment options available, including:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps individuals identify and challenge maladaptive thought patterns and beliefs related to health anxiety. By learning to reframe their thoughts and develop coping strategies, individuals can reduce their anxiety and regain control over their lives.

2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting distressing thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or eliminate them. Through mindfulness techniques and value-based actions, individuals can learn to live more fully in the present moment, reducing the impact of health-related anxiety on their lives.

3. Psychodynamic Therapy: Psychodynamic therapy explores the underlying psychological factors contributing to health anxiety, such as past experiences or unconscious conflicts. By gaining insight into these underlying issues, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of their symptoms and work towards lasting change.

4. Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: IFS therapy helps individuals explore and reconcile conflicting parts of themselves that may contribute to health anxiety. By understanding and integrating these internal dynamics, individuals can reduce internal conflict and find greater peace of mind.

Overcoming Illness Anxiety Disorder

Illness Anxiety Disorder can cast a shadow over even the brightest moments, but it's essential to remember that there is hope and help available. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for IAD, individuals can take proactive steps towards overcoming health-related anxiety and reclaiming their peace of mind. Whether through therapy, medication, or self-help strategies, there are pathways to healing for those grappling with Illness Anxiety Disorder. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of IAD, don't hesitate to reach out to a qualified mental health professional for support and guidance.

Learn more about Anxiety Treatment.

The Overlap of OCD & Autism

Understanding the intricate relationship between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. These two conditions, while distinct, often intertwine in complex ways, posing challenges for individuals and clinicians alike.

The overlap of symptoms between OCD and autism can lead to misdiagnosis. When they co-exist, it’s not uncommon to have one of the conditions go undiagnosed. With all that in mind, one must understand both the similarities and the differences. 

The Overlap of OCD & Autism

Generally speaking, three primary categories of overlap can cause confusion:

Intrusive Thoughts/Obsessions

Intrusive thoughts are the norm for people with OCD. But it’s lesser known that obsessions are not uncommon with anyone dealing with ASD. With OCD, they may manifest as, for example:

• Fear of embarrassing oneself by what they say or do

• Unwelcome thoughts that are distressing, violent, or inappropriate

• Rumination related to harmful events happening to someone they love (including themselves)

Autism notoriously leads to obsessions. Someone with ASD may focus on a specific topic or interest. While the causes are very different, an outsider may just see obsessions and not be able to discern the origin. Once again, this can complicate diagnosis. 

Stimming

Self-stimulating behaviors or stimming are almost always associated with autism. Rocking oneself, repetitive actions, and finger or foot tapping are common examples. Therefore, if someone with OCD engages in very repetitive behavior, it can be mistaken as ASD. Once again, the underlying purpose of the action (in this case, stimming) is very different. That said, without an assessment, it can be very tough to discern which disorder is present.

Social Interactions 

As you might imagine, someone with either ASD or OCD can struggle in social settings. People don’t understand the obsessions or repetitive actions. The person with ASD or OCD can tell that they’re being judged, but this typically just adds to the anxiety — and thus, the behaviors. Yet again, others are unsure what’s happening and why.

Unless and until observation and evaluation have been performed, the presence of a mental health disorder can be missed or misdiagnosed. Then, of course, there is the fact stated up top: 25 percent of kids between the ages of 4 and 17 with OCD have been diagnosed with ASD.

When OCD & ASD Are Co-Morbid 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is often tough to diagnose. Its symptoms overlap with many other conditions. When an autistic person has OCD, things get even trickier. For this reason, certain tools and measures have been designed to help ease the confusion. The process is comprehensive and involves practitioners from multiple disciplines. That said, a lot hinges on the experience and knowledge of the clinicians. 

Another crucial factor is the potential that someone with ASD will have issues with communication. Of course, each case is unique, but it’s not unusual for an autistic individual to struggle with articulating what they are feeling. This can obscure OCD symptoms and leave them unaddressed.

What Are Your Options?

If you or someone you know might be dealing with the overlap of ASD and OCD, you’re not alone. This means there are clinicians out there with the skills and experience to screen for both disorders effectively. Obtaining such information is the critical first step toward addressing and managing the intertwined symptoms.

Don’t struggle in silence or try to self-diagnose. I invite you to contact me today to learn more about the steps available to you.

Learn more about OCD Treatment.

Harm OCD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Most folks would rather not admit it, but intrusive thoughts are a common part of life. They’re uncomfortable and can be quite disturbing at times. But, for most people, they’re fleeting and can be easily dismissed. This is not the case for anyone with a sub-type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) called harm OCD.

For them, unwanted thoughts about harming oneself or others are frequent and powerful. They are the obsessions in obsessive-compulsive disorder and can create a desire to perform compulsive rituals to ward them off. Compulsions may temporarily relieve anxiety, but they return as soon as the obsession does. The harm OCD cycle must be addressed.

What Causes Harm OCD?

As is the case with any type of OCD, no specific cause has been identified. Research continues, but, in the meantime, close observation has revealed some of the factors that could be associated with harm OCD, e.g.:

• Family history and learned behaviors 

• Preexisting mental health issues

• Brain chemistry

• Traumatic life events

Common Harm OCD Symptoms

Of course, there are intrusive thoughts and mental images of violence that trigger an intense fear that the person having such thoughts will carry them out. This includes a general dread that they will commit harmful acts by accident and remain unaware of them. Someone with harm OCD harbors a deep concern that they are violent people and just hiding their true nature. 

As mentioned above, obsessive thoughts of harm launch a cycle of compulsions in the name of reducing anxiety. Such rituals may involve:

• Self-interrogation with the intent to discover if they are truly capable of such horrific behavior

• Asking others for reassurance

• Hiding items that could be used to hurt themselves or others

• Avoiding exposure to news stories or violent content 

• A fixation on spiritual practices or items that they feel can prevent them from losing control 

• Engaging in dedicated research to learn more about people who have committed heinous crimes

• Fastidiously reviewing and replaying all their actions to make sure they did not contribute to the harm of anyone they encountered 

Needless to say, harm OCD can seriously hamper one’s daily functioning. Thus, they must get the help they need and deserve.

Harm OCD Treatment 

This is no “cure” for any form of OCD. However, proven treatment options are available. The most prominent is Exposure and Ritual Prevention (ERP). Working with an experienced therapist, the person with harm OCD agrees to be exposed to a trigger. The plan is to reduce the compulsive response to obsessive thoughts progressively. Here is a basic description of the process:

• The first step involves a short pause. When triggered to activate a ritual, the person commits to not take any action for a predetermined amount of time. This slowly builds confidence that they are not out of control.

• During the next exposure, you add to the delay by performing the compulsion in slow motion. You may still get the anxiety relief you seek, but again, you are reclaiming more control over the cycle.

• Typically, compulsive rituals will have several parts. Hence, the client will choose one component to omit. To review, they’ve resisted taking immediate action, slowed down the pace, and now altered the cycle by removing a step.

• By repeating and adding to the steps above, the person can reach a point where they can get triggered without responding. Yes, the intrusive thoughts arrive, but they no longer feel helpless in the face of them.

ERP can retrain the brain to recognize that there are big differences between thoughts and actions. Someone with harm OCD feels less trapped by the cycle and can function more healthily. 

Learn more about OCD Treatment.

The Silent Fuel: How a Lack of Sleep Ignites Anxiety

In today's fast-paced world, it's not uncommon for many of us to experience sleepless nights due to the demands of our busy lives. Whether it's work-related stress, personal responsibilities, or simply the allure of endless entertainment at our fingertips, the importance of a good night's sleep often takes a back seat. However, what many don't realize is that a lack of sleep can significantly contribute to anxiety, turning a seemingly innocent problem into a vicious cycle. Let's delve deeper into the intricate relationship between sleep and anxiety and discuss how prioritizing rest can be a powerful tool in managing anxiety disorders.

The Connection Between Sleep and Anxiety

Sleep and anxiety are closely intertwined, forming a complex relationship that can either promote well-being or trigger distress. When we fail to get enough quality sleep, our bodies and minds are thrown into disarray, and our ability to manage stress and anxiety diminishes significantly. Here are some key ways in which a lack of sleep fuels anxiety:

1. Increased Emotional Reactivity: Sleep deprivation amplifies our emotional responses, making us more prone to irritability, mood swings, and heightened sensitivity to stressors. This heightened emotional state can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and make it more challenging to cope with daily challenges.

2. Impaired Cognitive Function: A sleep-deprived brain struggles with cognitive functions such as concentration, memory, and problem-solving. As a result, individuals may find it difficult to process information effectively and may perceive everyday situations as more overwhelming than they truly are, contributing to anxiety.

3. Overactive Stress Response: Lack of sleep triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can lead to a heightened state of alertness and anxiety. This constant state of arousal can make it challenging for individuals to relax and unwind, further exacerbating their anxiety.

4. Disturbed Sleep Patterns: Anxiety often leads to disrupted sleep patterns, with racing thoughts and excessive worry making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. These sleep disturbances can, in turn, perpetuate anxiety, creating a vicious cycle.

Breaking the Cycle

Recognizing the link between sleep and anxiety is the first step towards breaking this cycle. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and seeking professional help when needed can make a significant difference in managing anxiety:

1. Establish a Sleep Routine: Create a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.

2. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure your sleep environment is conducive to rest. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows to enhance your sleep quality.

3. Limit Screen Time: The blue light emitted by smartphones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Aim to reduce screen time at least an hour before bedtime.

4. Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and reduce stress before bedtime. This can help you fall asleep more easily and improve sleep quality.

5. Seek Professional Help: If anxiety is interfering with your ability to sleep, consider consulting a therapist or counselor who specializes in anxiety disorders.

Recognizing the link between sleep and anxiety is the initial stride towards disrupting this cycle. While prioritizing good sleep hygiene is essential, seeking professional help becomes crucial when the root cause of sleep disturbances runs deeper than mere habits. An experienced therapist can collaborate with you to identify and confront the underlying causes of sleep disturbances and anxiety. This may encompass delving into past traumas, addressing ongoing stressors, or exploring relational challenges that contribute to your symptoms. Therapy offers a tailored approach to untangle the intricate web of anxiety and sleep, providing you with the tools to regain control over your emotional well-being.

Embracing the Night for Daylight Peace

In the quest to manage anxiety, don't underestimate the power of a good night's sleep. The connection between sleep and anxiety is undeniable, and prioritizing your sleep can be a crucial step in regaining control over your emotional well-being. By adopting healthy sleep habits and seeking professional support when necessary, you can break the cycle of anxiety and sleeplessness, paving the way for more balance and calm in your life.

Learn more about anxiety treatment.

What Is Relationship OCD?

As the name implies, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves obsessions (e.g., intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (rituals designed to ease the anxiety caused by obsessions).In a recent post, I discussed that OCD is chronic, with symptoms coming and going throughout somebody’s life. It does not have a cure, but there are approaches that can manage it.

OCD has several subtypes, for example, relationship OCD (R-OCD). As you might imagine, this variation is marked by severe anxiety within the realm of one’s relationship. This anxiety centers around self-doubt and typically triggers the obsession-compulsion cycle. Let’s explore some of the signs and symptoms of R-OCD. 

R-OCD Behaviors 

Everyone has dating quirks and concerns. But R-OCD is much more than that. It can even manifest before a relationship starts, e.g., people who refuse to date because they don’t think anyone is a good match. That said, R-OCD behaviors are more common and identifiable within the context of an existing relationship.

Here are a few of the fixations you might see in someone with R-OCD:

• Needing to know if there is something wrong with their partner constantly.

• Precisely how much their partner loves them or is attracted to them.

• Being reassured that a break-up is not imminent.

• Comparing their relationship to other couples.

Despite such anxious concerns, they may feel incapable of initiating a conversation about them. Hence, the anxiety creates obsessions and compulsions which dominate their life.

Common R-OCD Obsessions

The behavior list above is a good place to start. People with R-OCD may feel obsessed with the “knowledge” that their relationship is doomed. They may obsess over a strange look their partner gave them. Or, they may obsess over the occasional disagreement and feel as if it means their relationship is doomed to end.

These types of obsessions can become all-consuming and cause someone to develop compulsive responses in the hope of experiencing at least some temporary relief. 

Common R-OCD Compulsions

To ease some of the distress they feel, people with R-OCD may spend a lot of time scrolling. For example, they might type something like this into the nearest search engine, “Signs of a cheating partner.” Compulsions can provide a respite from intrusive thoughts, and they can take the form of:

• Comparing: Social media makes examining a wide range of carefully curated couple’s photos and videos possible. Do they look happy? How long have they been together? Do both partners participate equally in the online interactions? These relentless observations can be used to “prove” whatever feels more calming.

• Clinginess: As touched on above, the need for reassurance can become suffocating.

• Making Lists: Depending on which obsession is loudest at the moment, someone with R-OCD can compile a list to silence it or reinforce it. With enough ink and lines on the paper, convincing ourselves about anything is entirely too easy.

But How Do We Really Know If It’s Relationship OCD?

Everyone doubts or compares themselves to other people or situations. However, maybe you have read through the post and are wondering if this also applies to you.

What makes R-OCD different is the intense amount of time it takes up. Daily functioning takes a back seat. Someone will allocate major chunks of their day — often every day — to obsessing over their relationship. In cases of R-OCD, this is a pattern that is often repeated in every single relationship someone has been in.

If the information above resonated with you, the wisest move is to speak with a professional. I encourage you to reach out for more information about OCD treatment.

What is Complex Trauma?

Most likely, you’ve heard of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). You probably know about causes like living in a war zone or enduring a major disaster. But there is a parallel condition that is similar in some ways while remaining quite different. Complex PTSD is the result of complex trauma. In a nutshell, this term describes a chronic form of trauma usually endured during childhood. 

When a therapist talks about “complex trauma,” they are using a term that describes both the repetitive events and the long-term effects. This is not a form of ranking trauma vs. complex trauma. Instead, it’s about identifying clear differences between the two experiences. 

Symptoms and Causes of Complex PTSD

The symptoms often intersect with the symptoms of PTSD, e.g., flashbacks, nightmares, and more. But with complex trauma, the survivor is more likely to also experience:

• Inability to regulate their emotions 

• Intense feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame

• A sense that no one understands what they feel

• Unwillingness to fully trust others 

• Trouble connecting with others on a deep level

• Dissociation and other challenges in recognizing reality

• Loss of one’s belief system 

What Can Cause Complex PTSD?

Again, the type of terrible experiences that are endured and/or witnessed is ongoing. For example: 

• Emotional, sexual, and physical abuse

• Neglect and abandonment 

• Growing up in a home in which substance abuse is the norm

• Living in a war zone

• Domestic abuse

• Kidnapping

• Being trafficked, prostituted, or enslaved

• Any scenario in which you feel trapped and unable to escape your abuser

The impact is heightened if this happened to you in childhood — especially when the abuser was someone you trusted. 

What Can Trigger Complex PTSD?

People with Complex PTSD quickly learn that their symptoms can be triggered by situations, places, or emotions that feel related to the original trauma cycle. 

Common Complex PTSD triggers include:

• Sensory input via sound, taste, smell, etc.

• Any abrupt ending to a situation (like divorce or leaving a job)

• Consuming any kind of content that reminds you of the trauma

• Specific anniversaires 

• Anything that sparks fear or anger can be triggering 

What Does Complex PTSD Happen So Often During Childhood?

When the victim is a young child, they can be left not understanding what is happening. The people they depend upon to attend to their basic needs are behaving in a way that is painful. They feel powerless to stop it and frequently blame themselves. This sets up complex interpersonal dynamics that can shape their cognitive development well into adulthood, e.g.:

• They may not trust themselves while believing others know what is best for them 

• A trauma bond can be created by which the victim strives to please the abuser in the hope that the negative treatment will stop 

• They learn how to say and do what is expected of them to lessen the abuse

Complex PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Complex PTSD and BPD present with many similar symptoms. These include:

• A sense of worthlessness

• Impulsive behavior

• Inability to connect with others

BPD can also be caused by childhood trauma. Thus, it is crucial to connect with a therapist who is experienced in differentiating between these two disorders. 

Getting the Help You Need and Deserve

Considering that as many as eight percent of the world’s adult population struggles with complex trauma, any treatment options exist. In addition, there are self-help steps (like healthy eating, relaxation techniques, and more) you can incorporate into your life. Hence, a powerful first step is to reach out to a mental health practitioner who understands your situation. With that in mind, I invite you to set up a free and confidential consultation at your earliest convenience. 

Learn more about Trauma Therapy.

Ketamine vs. Esketamine: What Gives?

The mental health field is currently undergoing a significant evolution with the reintroduction of psychedelics into the psychotherapeutic landscape. Ketamine, while not a traditional psychedelic (working on the glutamate pathway rather than on serotonin), stands out as a notable treatment offering hope to individuals struggling with depression, especially those who haven't found success with conventional methods.

When integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan, ketamine can act as a catalyst for profound change, assisting individuals in breaking free from ingrained patterns. However, navigating the plethora of ketamine treatments, often aggressively marketed through social media, can be challenging. It's crucial for individuals seeking treatment to understand their options and find ethical, informed providers. A common area of confusion is discerning the differences between ketamine and its relative, esketamine. This post aims to clarify these distinctions, providing a clearer understanding of these two treatments.

Ketamine vs. Esketamine: Key Differences

Ketamine and esketamine, while chemically related, differ in their applications and effects:

1. FDA Approval and Use:

   • Esketamine (Spravato) is FDA-approved specifically for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), targeting patients who have not adequately responded to at least two different antidepressant treatments during their current depressive episode. This response is evaluated through a specific approval process before insurance coverage is granted and clinicians can prescribe it.

   • Generic ketamine is used off-label for various depressive conditions and can be administered through IV infusions, intramuscular injections, or lozenges.

2. Effectiveness, Rapid Action, and Neuroplasticity:

   • Both esketamine and generic ketamine are recognized for their rapid action in alleviating depressive symptoms for some and increasing neuroplasticity, which is key in facilitating long-term psychological change.

3. Side Effects and Risks:

   • Common effects include changes in perception, drowsiness, and high blood pressure, with risks such as addiction and tolerance requiring careful medical supervision.

Treatment Options and Considerations:

• Esketamine Nasal Spray: Suited for TRD patients, usually covered by insurance following the approval process, and administered under medical supervision.

• Generic Ketamine Treatments: Offer a range of administration methods for a broader spectrum of depressive conditions, with variable insurance coverage.

Cost Considerations:

• Esketamine: More likely to be covered by insurance due to FDA approval, but can be expensive without insurance.

• Generic Ketamine: May incur high out-of-pocket expenses if not covered by insurance.

Not a Magic Bullet

It's important to recognize that treatment with ketamine or esketamine is not suitable for everyone. While some individuals may find these therapies incredibly helpful in managing their depression, others may not experience the same level of benefit. The effectiveness of these treatments can vary greatly from person to person. This variability underscores the importance of working closely with healthcare providers to determine whether ketamine or esketamine is an appropriate option. Healthcare professionals can assess individual health histories, current mental health status, and overall treatment goals to decide if these treatments can play a beneficial role in one's mental health journey. It's crucial for patients to have open, informed discussions with their providers about the potential risks and benefits, ensuring that any treatment decision is made with a comprehensive understanding of their personal health needs.

Final Thoughts:

As we navigate the evolving landscape of mental health treatment, it's clear that ketamine and esketamine hold significant potential in transforming lives. However, their use is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The decision to incorporate ketamine or esketamine into one's treatment plan should be made with a deep understanding of personal health needs and in alignment with the broader goals of therapy. Above all, these treatments underscore an important message: while the path to healing is varied, hope and help are available.

Note: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to evaluate what treatments are appropriate for your specific mental health needs.

Learn more about Psychedelic Harm Reduction and Integration Therapy.