What Can Cause OCD to Get Worse?
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
You’ve probably noticed that your OCD symptoms come and go. Sometimes, they’re barely noticeable; other times, they’re overwhelming. While everyone’s triggers are unique, certain factors often worsen OCD. Understanding what makes your OCD flare up is key to managing it effectively. By identifying your personal triggers, you can better prepare for and navigate the ups and downs of living with OCD.
Common Triggers That Intensify OCD Symptoms
Stress, anxiety, and significant life changes can increase your OCD symptoms. You might notice flare-ups during times of uncertainty or when facing new responsibilities. Lack of sleep and poor nutrition can also worsen obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Additionally, exposure to specific fears or trauma-related triggers may intensify your condition. Remember, identifying your personal triggers is crucial for managing OCD effectively.
Doing Compulsions
Performing compulsions, whether mental or physical, can worsen OCD symptoms. While these actions may offer temporary relief from obsession-induced distress, they ultimately reinforce the cycle. The more you engage in compulsions, the stronger your belief becomes that obsessions pose real dangers and that these rituals are necessary for protection. This pattern can lead to escalating OCD severity over time.
Avoidance
One of the biggest traps in OCD is avoidance. When people avoid triggers (like germs, intrusive thoughts, or uncertain situations), they temporarily feel better — but in the long run, avoidance teaches the brain that the fear is dangerous. Similarly, engaging in compulsions (like checking, cleaning, or seeking reassurance) might bring short-term relief, but actually makes OCD stronger over time.OCD thrives on the cycle of fear and relief. The more you do to escape the anxiety, the more the brain thinks the obsession must be true and then the brain wants more aviodence and more compulsions.
Concurrent Mental Health Disorders with OCD
Did you know that OCD often brings along some unwelcome company? It’s not uncommon for OCD to tag-team with other mental health issues, potentially making your symptoms worse. While depression and anxiety are frequent partners in crime, OCD can also co-occur with ADHD, Depression, eating disorders, personality disorders, or substance use problems. It’s like a mental health potluck–but one you’d rather skip.
Life Stress and Change
You might not realize it, but stress can be a significant trigger for OCD symptoms. Whether positive changes like a new job or negative ones like financial worries, any shift in your life can cause strain. Even exciting events like having a baby can escalate OCD. Our fast-paced world is full of potential stressors, from work demands to relationship issues. Managing these while battling OCD can feel overwhelming at times.
Tips to Control the Worsening of OCD Symptoms
Feeling overwhelmed by your OCD symptoms? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The key is long-term management and preparation. Start by seeking proper treatment, specifically exposure and response prevention therapy. This evidence-based approach gradually exposes you to your fears, teaching you new ways to respond to triggers. With therapy, you’ll learn to recognize and avoid compulsions, ultimately reducing your symptoms over time.
You can interrupt OCD symptoms quickly through consistent therapy. Stay committed to your sessions and homework, even when it’s uncomfortable. Remember, OCD often lies about the need for compulsions or aviodence. If symptoms worsen during treatment, don’t lose hope – it’s part of the process.
Remember, everyone’s experience with OCD is unique, but being aware of these common triggers can help you stay on top of your mental health. Whether it’s stress, lack of sleep, or major life changes or a combination of things, keeping an eye out for these red flags can make a big difference.
If these situations sound familiar to you, you don’t have to face them alone. While triggers can be unpredictable, there is hope. I offer compassionate, professional care to help you overcome OCD symptoms. You don’t have to fight it by yourself. Book a consultation today to learn more.
The Good News: OCD is Treatable
The things that make OCD worse are often the same areas that can be addressed in therapy. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD, helps individuals face fears gradually and resist compulsions — breaking the cycle over time.
If you're struggling with OCD and noticing that things are getting worse, you're not alone — and things can get better. With the right support, you can learn to face OCD head-on and reclaim your life.
OCD treatment near me
At Resilience Counseling, we specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, using evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT. Our team understands how overwhelming OCD can feel — and we’re here to help you or your loved one build tools that foster lasting change. Whether you're new to therapy or looking for a provider who truly understands OCD, our compassionate clinicians are ready to support you. To learn more or schedule a consultation, click here.
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Author Bio: Katherine Pica OCD Therapist - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica, LCSW is the owner and clinical director of Resilience Counseling. She supervises all the therapists at Resilience Counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 18 years! Trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine brings her years of experience to her team! We have team members available in San Diego, CA for session in person and all over California for virtual therapy.
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
