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Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD Treatment

Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD: Understanding and Treating Fixations on Bodily Sensations

At The Scoggan Institute, we recognize that OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) manifests in various ways. Sensorimotor OCD, also known as Somatic OCD, is a subtype where intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors center around bodily sensations and functions.

Understanding Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD

This type of OCD involves becoming hyper-aware of and fixated on natural bodily processes and sensations. These can include, but are not limited to:

  • Breathing: Being preoccupied with the rhythm, depth, or sound of breathing, leading to attempts to control it.
  • Blinking: Excessive focus on blinking, worrying about blinking too much or too little, and engaging in compulsive blinking.
  • Swallowing: Constant awareness of swallowing, fearing the inability to swallow or the need to swallow repeatedly.
  • Muscle tension: Focusing on muscle tension or tightness, leading to compulsive stretching or tensing to “fix” the sensation.
  • Body sounds: Being bothered by internal body sounds like gurgling or popping, leading to attempts to suppress them.

Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions

Sensorimotor OCD is characterized by a cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The intrusive thoughts typically revolve around:

  • Fearing something is wrong with your body: Worrying that a normal sensation indicates an underlying medical condition.
  • Needing to control bodily functions: Feeling the urge to control your breathing, blinking, or other processes to achieve a perceived sense of “normalcy.”
  • Losing control: Fearing that if you don’t control these functions, something catastrophic will happen.

These intrusive thoughts trigger anxiety and distress, leading to compulsions aimed at neutralizing the anxiety or gaining a false sense of control. Common compulsions in Sensorimotor OCD might include:

  • Mental rituals: Counting breaths, silently repeating phrases, or engaging in mental calculations related to the sensations.
  • Physical compulsions: Clearing your throat repeatedly, forced blinking, tensing and relaxing muscles, or specific breathing patterns.
  • Reassurance seeking: Checking your body for signs of something wrong or repeatedly asking for reassurance from others.

Impact of Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD

This type of OCD can significantly impact daily life. The constant focus on bodily sensations can be exhausting and intrusive, leading to:

  • Social isolation: Avoiding situations that might trigger anxiety or make compulsions difficult to perform.
  • Performance anxiety: Worrying that bodily sensations will become noticeable or interfere with tasks at work or school.
  • Relationship strain: The preoccupation with OCD symptoms can strain relationships with family and friends.
  • Difficulties with relaxation: The constant monitoring of bodily sensations can make it difficult to relax and unwind.

Effective Treatment for Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD

The good news is that Sensorimotor OCD is highly treatable. At The Scoggan Institute, our experienced therapists utilize evidence-based approaches to help you manage your symptoms and regain control of your life. Here are some of the core treatment strategies we employ:

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): This therapy involves gradually exposing yourself to the anxiety-provoking bodily sensations while resisting compulsions. This helps you learn that the sensations are harmless and the anxiety will eventually decrease without needing to act on compulsions.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to your bodily sensations. By developing healthier coping mechanisms, you can manage anxiety more effectively.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Learning relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation or deep breathing can help manage the anxiety associated with intrusive thoughts and sensations.

The Road to Recovery

Recovery from Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD is a journey, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. With dedicated therapy and the right tools, you can learn to manage your OCD symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

Contact The Scoggan Institute Today

If you suspect you might have Sensorimotor/Somatic OCD, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Our compassionate team can help you develop a personalized treatment plan and empower you to take back control of your life.

Start your path to psychological wellness with our thoroughly selected specialists.

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