Suicidal OCD is a subtype of the commonly misinterpreted obsessive-compulsive disorder characterized by fears surrounding suicide. It is a painful and scary experience plagued by never-ending thoughts centering on the supposed taking of one’s life. As a residential mental health care center, we understand that the topics of suicide and OCD can be triggering for some. If you need to talk to someone or want more information about getting help, reach out to Clearbrook today.
OCD Misconceptions
The stereotype of OCD usually includes images of hyper-organized neatniks who need every object to be in its perfect place. While this is certainly a way for the disorder to manifest, it is a far cry from the universal experience of those afflicted.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is a mental illness in which the sufferer is victim to a cycle of, as the name would suggest, obsessions and compulsions. The obsessions are considered irrational fears that, in turn, lead to the performance of compulsive behavior. This can translate to acted-out behaviors, cyclical thought patterns, and an inability to move forward with one’s day until a ritual is performed.
There is no one right way to treat OCD. Clearbrook offers an array of innovative therapy models designed to assist in your journey towards the management of this disorder, including art, faith-based, and cognitive-behavioral options.
OCD and Suicide
Like many mental disorders, it is rare that a person is dealing with just one at a time. For some, these obsessive rituals can translate into intrusive suicidal thoughts. An intrusive thought is when a thought appears in our head at any time, regardless of circumstances. This does not necessarily mean the sufferer has OCD. It is the consistent presence of those thoughts that is usually to blame. Think of it as a misfiring of information that the brain thinks it needs to set off to protect us.
Ways Suicidal OCD Can Manifest
- Fear that you will want to end your life.
- Constantly imagining ways to do it.
- Fantasizing about the reaction the suicide would cause.
These can be considered the obsessions part of OCD suicidal thoughts. In response, a few possible compulsions include:
- An extreme amount of research centered on suicide. Google and OCD do NOT mix!
- Never-ending self-reflection: Consistently seeking out answers to thoughts and questions.
- OCD and self-harm: If it reaches this dangerous point, the individual can start feeling the need to act out their fearful obsessions into physically harmful rituals.
These experiences cause a great amount of anxiety and managing that anxiety becomes the primary focus of a person’s life. It is through specialized treatment and commitment to oneself that progress is made.
You Are Not Alone
OCD can be an extremely isolating disorder, one that is constantly learning new ways to grow and fester.
Our Massachusetts treatment center provides optimal care for those struggling with suicidal OCD. Peace is possible, and our dedicated team of specialists is available to help you start living the life you deserve. Call 570-536-9621 for more information.
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