Compulsive Behaviour
What is compulsive behaviour?
Compulsive behaviour consists of action which are carried out for apparently irrational reasons. For example, repeatedly washing one’s hand or having to touch things in a particular manner a certain number of times, and then to do it all over again if an action is not performed perfectly the time before are indications that there is a problem.
Attempts to prevent or avoid the compulsive ‘ritual’ often results in considerable anxiety or worry that someting awful may happen if the act is not actually performed.
Minor ‘compulsions’ such as re-checking one’s work or making doubly sure that the door is locked can be useful, since we all make mistakes.
However, if the checking or repitition becomes excessive, it can be a serious handicap that may interfere with the sufferer’s ability to live a normal life, or to work efficiently.
Compulsive behaviour may also be accompanied by unwanted or unpleasant thoughts. Obsessional ideas or thoughts may force themselves into the sufferer’s mind despite all manner of attempts to keep them out.
What causes compulsive behaviour?
No single cause can be found or compulsive behaviour or obsessional thoughts. Inheritance may play a part in the condition, but not to any great extent. Childhood experiences have been considered as a factor, but again, the evidence is not clearcut. Depression is sometimes associated with compulsive behaviour, and psychological or stressful events may also be relevant. What is common to most compulsions is the anxiety and upset experienced by the sufferer, who may feel ashamed or weak for having such thoughts or urges in the first place.
How is compulsive behaviour diagnosed and treated?
A detailed history, put together from questions asked by the doctor, will usually uncover the unwanted thoughts or action that are causing misery to the sufferer.
Sufferers are often depressed as a reaction to their compulsive symptoms. They may also report temporary relief from anxiety after performing their unwanted actions or rituals, athough in some cases the anxiety may be increased.
The treatment of compulsive or obsessional behaviour depends on the nature and severity of the disorder. This may include:
*Simple reassurance that the sufferer is not going mad, or is a bad person because of a compulsion that is proving so distressing.
*Psychotherapy, either on an individual or group basis, preferably of a supportive and practical type rather than of an intensive or probing nature.
*Drug treatment may offer temporary relief, particularly where depression is also present.
*Behaviour therapy, which is designed to alter or change the pattern of compulsive behaviour and gradually reduce the level of associated anxiety.
What can I do myself?
Compulsive behaviour and unwanted thoughts or urges are not easy to control. Avoidance of stress or of situations which provoke anxiety may reduce the occurrence of compulsions. Engaging in absorbing or enjoyable pastimes may also help. Keeping busy, both mentally and physically, is certainly worth trying.
When should I see my doctor?
Seek medical help if the compulsion or obsession is causing more than a moderate amount of concern, or if its frequency is increasing. Such problems can prove difficult to treat, expecially if they have existed for a long time and have become ingrained.
What will the doctor do?
The doctor will decide if the problem is serious or not, and then instigate a programme of treatment which may range from a simple chat, to a referral to an appropriate specialist. Admitting that cuch a problem exists which many people are ashamed or reluctant to do is an important first step towards recovery.
The course of compulsive disorders
A good many cases improve, although this can take up to a year. Long term compulsive disorders may vary in their intensity, even though there can be periods of partial or even complete reduction of symptoms.
Is compulsive behaviour dangerous?
Despite the disruption of daily routines and interference with the enjoyment of life, there is normally very little chance of compulsive disorders causing any actual danger to the sufferer. The main ‘danger’ is the threat to one’s peace of mind and the distress associated with such problems.
SYMPTOMS
*A strong need or compulsion to carry out purposeless or senseless actions, usually repeatedly.
*Unwelcome, unpleasant, or upsetting thoughts that prey on the mind, or urges to carry out undesirable actions.
*Difficulty in carrying out normal responsibilities due to the repetition of unnecessary or irrational acts.
How can I avoid compulsive behaviour and unwanted thoughts?
*Try to live as balanced a life as possible.
*Avoid circumstances which cause unnecessary or serious stress.
*If you are worried, seek help sooner rather than later from qualified medical or psychological practitioners.
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