Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes people to experience unwanted, intrusive thoughts, fears or urges (called obsessions). In response, they may feel the need to perform certain behaviors over and over (called compulsions) in an attempt to relieve the anxiety caused by those thoughts. 

For example, someone might check that a door is locked dozens of times, rewrite a sentence repeatedly until it looks perfect or avoid stepping on cracks in the sidewalk because it “feels wrong.” These rituals often must be repeated until the action feels “just right.” 

While everyone has habits or preferences, OCD interferes with day-to-day functioning. People with OCD often realize their fears or behaviors don’t make logical sense but feel powerless to stop them. Left untreated, OCD can seriously affect school, work, relationships and emotional wellbeing. 

 

Signs and Symptoms 

People with OCD may experience obsessions, compulsions or both. 

Common obsessions may include: 

• Fear of germs or contamination 

• Worrying that something bad will happen if a task isn’t done “correctly” 

• Needing objects to be arranged symmetrically or in a specific order 

• Fear that certain numbers, items or colors bring bad luck 

• Intrusive thoughts that cause distress 

Common compulsions may include: 

• Repetitive hand washing or cleaning 

• Rechecking things multiple times (like locks or homework) 

• Counting, tapping or repeating actions a set number of times 

• Hoarding or collecting items without purpose 

• Rewriting or rereading until something looks or feels perfect 

These behaviors often take up a lot of time and may cause distress when interrupted. 

 

What You Can Do 

If you or someone you care about is struggling with OCD, here are steps to help: 

• Seek professional help. A licensed mental health provider can diagnose OCD and recommend treatment 

• Participate in therapy when appropriate. Caregivers or family members can learn strategies to support recovery 

• Listen without judgment. People with OCD may feel embarrassed or confused by their symptoms 

• Watch for subtle behaviors. Many people hide their compulsions, so staying observant helps with early intervention 

• Work with school or work settings to ensure understanding and accommodations if needed 

 

How KVC Kentucky Can Help 

KVC Kentucky offers outpatient therapy and behavioral health services for children, teens and adults experiencing symptoms of OCD and related mental health concerns. 

Our licensed clinicians use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches including: 

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), which helps individuals challenge obsessive thoughts and reduce ritualistic behaviors 

• DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), which supports emotional regulation and distress tolerance 

All care is personalized based on each client’s goals, symptoms and needs. We work collaboratively with families, schools and community partners to ensure the best possible outcomes. 

To schedule an appointment or learn more, call us at (859) 254-1035. 

 

Additional Resources for Help in Kentucky 

• Call your primary care provider or a local Kentucky Community Mental Health Center. Find one near you at chfs.ky.gov 

• Call KVC Kentucky at (859) 254-1035 to speak with a local mental health provider 

• Visit the International OCD Foundation at iocdf.org for helpful resources and information 

• Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line for free 24/7 support 

• Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to connect with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 

• Visit nami.org or call 1-800-950-6264 for education and support from the National Alliance on Mental Illness 

• Explore OCD content and tools at the Child Mind Institute