Obsessive neurosis is a psychological disorder characterized by intrusive, recurrent and persistent thoughts that generate anxiety and discomfort in the person who suffers from it. These obsessive thoughts are usually accompanied by compulsions, that is, repetitive behaviors that seek to relieve the anxiety generated by the obsessions. In this article we will explore in detail what the psychological effects of obsessional neurosis are and how it affects the daily lives of those who suffer from it.
What is obsessional neurosis ?
Obsessive neurosis, also known as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), is an anxiety disorder characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted and persistent thoughts, images or impulses that generate anxiety in the person, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors that the person performs in an attempt to relieve the anxiety caused by obsessions.
The The most common obsessions in obsessional neurosis are usually related to topics such as pollution, order, symmetry, security, religion or sexuality. On the other hand, compulsions usually manifest themselves through rituals of cleaning, checking, counting, repetition or mental acts, among others.
Impact on daily life
Obsessive neurosis can have a significant impact on the daily lives of those who suffer from it. Obsessions and compulsions consume time and energy, which can interfere with daily activities, work, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life. People with obsessional neurosis often experience high levels of anxiety which can affect their emotional well-being and overall mental health.
Psychological effects of obsessional neurosis
Obsessive neurosis can lead to a series of psychological effects on the person who suffers from it. Some of the most common effects are described below:
1. Anxiety
Anxiety is one of the main psychological effects of obsessional neurosis. Obsessions generate anxiety in the person due to the intrusive and disturbing nature of obsessive thoughts. This anxiety can manifest itself on a physical level, with symptoms such as tachycardia, sweating, difficulty breathing or muscle tension, as well as on an emotional level, with feelings of fear, anguish, guilt or shame.
2. Guilt and self-demand
People with obsessional neurosis usually experience high levels of guilt and self-demand. Obsessions are usually related to the idea that something bad will happen if certain rules or rituals are not followed, which leads the person to feel responsible for preventing possible harm. This can generate a vicious cycle of guilt and self-demand that affects self-esteem and self-confidence.
3. Low self-esteem
Obsessive neurosis can contribute to the low self-esteem of the person who suffers from it. Obsessions and compulsions can lead to negative thoughts about yourself, such as feeling inadequate, incompetent, or unworthy. The constant struggle to control obsessive thoughts and avoid situations that generate anxiety can undermine a person's self-esteem, making them feel vulnerable and devalued.
4. Stress and exhaustion
The constant fight against obsessions and compulsions can generate high levels of stress and exhaustion in the person with obsessional neurosis. The need to comply with rituals or avoid situations that trigger anxiety can physically and emotionally exhaust the person, affecting their ability to face daily challenges and maintain emotional balance. Chronic stress derived from obsessional neurosis can have negative effects on the person's physical and mental health in the long term.
5. Interference in social and work life
Obsessive neurosis can interfere with the social and work life of the person who suffers from it. Obsessions and compulsions can make it difficult to participate in social activities, work performance, and interpersonal relationships. The need to comply with rituals or avoid certain situations can limit the person's freedom and autonomy, generating social isolation, difficulties at work and conflicts in personal relationships.
Treatment of obsessional neurosis
Fortunately, obsessional neurosis is a psychological disorder that can be successfully treated through appropriate therapeutic approaches. Treatment of obsessional neurosis usually includes a combination of psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication. Below are some of the most common treatment strategies:
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most effective psychological intervention for the treatment of obsessional neurosis. CBT helps a person identify, question, and modify irrational thoughts associated with obsessions, as well as develop strategies to cope with anxiety and resist compulsions. This therapy focuses on changing the patterns of thinking and behavior that perpetuate the disorder, promoting a more realistic and adaptive view of reality.
2. Exposure with response prevention
Exposure with response prevention is a technique used in cognitive-behavioral therapy for the treatment of obsessional neurosis. It consists of gradually exposing the person to situations that trigger anxiety and promoting resistance to carrying out the associated compulsions. Through repeated exposure to obsessions and prevention of compulsive responses, a person can learn to tolerate anxiety and control their thoughts and behaviors more effectively.
3. Medication
In some cases, medication may be recommended as part of the treatment of obsessional neurosis. Antidepressant medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be helpful in reducing anxiety and obsessional symptoms in some people. It is important that medication be prescribed and supervised by a mental health professional, since its use must be carefully monitored and should not replace psychological therapy.
4. Psychoeducation and family support
Psychoeducation and family support are fundamental aspects in the treatment of obsessional neurosis. Informing the person and their environment about the nature of the disorder, its causes and possible management strategies can help reduce stigma and promote understanding and support for the affected person. The active participation of the family in the therapeutic process can facilitate recovery and improve the prognosis of the disorder.
Conclusions
In summary, obsessional neurosis is a psychological disorder that is characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that generate anxiety and discomfort in the person who suffers from it. The psychological effects of obsessional neurosis can manifest in the form of anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, stress, exhaustion, and interference with daily life. However, with adequate treatment that combines psychotherapy, gradual exposure to obsessions, medication in some cases, psychoeducation and family support, it is possible to manage and overcome obsessional neurosis.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of obsessional neurosis, it is important to seek professional help to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You are not alone and there are effective resources and strategies to address this disorder and recover your emotional and mental well-being.