Compulsions: A Short Term Solution
When our brain detects a threat, it motivates us to assess and respond. For example, if we get a splinter, we naturally want to examine the area and take steps to prevent harm — like removing the splinter or cleaning the wound. This is an adaptive response designed to protect us.
In OCD, the brain misinterprets unwanted intrusions as signs of real danger.
This triggers intense distress and urges to "do something" - such as performing a compulsion, or avoiding a situation - in an attempt to reduce the changes of something bad happening, to feel safer and more in control.
At first, these compulsions can seem effective. They may bring temporary relief or reassurance, which makes them feel like the right solution. In fact, our brain will likely argue that compulsions are the only solution to this problem, so it makes complete sense that that is what we want to do!
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However, just because our brain urges us to act this way, it doesn’t mean it’s always a helpful course of action. For instance, eating sugar at every craving could readily become unhealthy.
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Any relief experienced from compulsions is short-lived.
Over time, compulsions feed the OCD cycle, increasing anxiety and reinforcing OCD's hold on our life.
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