Understanding Sexual OCD: Breaking Down the Stigma

Hey there! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s a bit sensitive but super important—Sexual OCD. Yeah, it’s a real thing, and it can seriously impact lives. My name is Dr. Deepak Kekar, and I've been in the field for 41 years, helping people navigate their mental health challenges, especially in Akola. So let’s break this down together.

So, what exactly is Sexual OCD? It’s a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder where your mind gets stuck on unwanted sexual thoughts or urges. You know, those pesky ideas that just keep popping up, even when you really don’t want them to? It can get overwhelming, leading to a ton of stress and anxiety.

The Nitty-Gritty of OCD

OCD is like a mental treadmill—you’re running in place but getting nowhere. Thoughts may swirl around in your mind about sex or related actions, and no matter how hard you try to shake them off, they just keep coming back. Some folks even find themselves compelled to perform certain actions to ease the anxiety caused by these thoughts, which can lead to a cycle of temporary relief followed by more tension.

For instance, you might think your hands are dirty, and then you feel the need to wash them repeatedly. Or maybe you check the locks on your doors over and over because you can’t shake the feeling that you might have left them open. It’s exhausting!

Sexual Thoughts and the Stigma

Now, let’s get real about sexual thoughts. Some people with OCD feel that having these thoughts means something bad will happen if they don’t act on them. This is especially true for women who might feel that sex is somehow “dirty” or wrong. It can lead to years without intimacy, causing rifts in relationships. The partner might feel rejected, while the person with OCD battles guilt and shame, thinking they’re somehow “bad” for not wanting to engage in sex.

And it’s not just about avoiding sex. Some might fixate on inappropriate thoughts involving family members or even deities, leading to feelings of disgust and self-loathing. That can spiral into really dark places, and it’s heartbreaking.

Coping with Sexual OCD

So, how do we tackle this? First off, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many people face similar issues. Treatment often involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medications like Citalopram and Clomipramine can really help manage those obsessive thoughts. But here’s the kicker: therapy plays a huge role too!

I use hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help my patients. With CBT, we focus on breaking the cycle of thoughts and actions. When those intrusive thoughts pop up, it’s crucial not to act on them. Instead, we work on strategies to let those thoughts float away without giving them power.

Get Support

If you or someone you know is dealing with this, don’t hesitate to reach out. There’s help available! I run group sessions and personalized therapy right here in Akola, and I’d love to assist you. You can contact me directly if you’re interested.

Remember, OCD affects a significant number of people—about 1 in 500 struggle with it in some form. It’s essential to break the stigma around it and encourage open discussions. If you found this helpful, please share it with others who might be struggling, and feel free to subscribe for more content.

Thanks for tuning in, and let’s keep this conversation going!