Everyone experiences moments of worry. Most can also identify with the urge to double-check to make sure the stove is really off, or the door is really locked.

But once these experiences go beyond an occasional experience, into anxiety or OCD symptoms that are impacting your life in a negative way, it might be time to seek professional guidance.

How do you know when it's time? Is avoidance a sign you should talk to a professional?

While avoidance is not unique to anxiety or OCD, compulsive and/or excessive avoidance are often key features and may be a sign that you may be suffering from clinical anxiety or OCD.

Are you:

Skipping social events?
Avoiding certain driving routines?
Declining opportunities?

If your life is being dictated by fear, rather than by what you want to do, then anxiety or OCD may be in the drivers' seat—not you.

What physical symptoms indicate it's time to talk to a professional?

Anxiety isn't "all in your head." It lives in your body too.

Physical symptoms may include:

Chronic tension
Frequent headaches
Gastrointestinal issues
Racing heartbeat

These symptoms can arise because your nervous system is stuck in a "fight or flight" loop. Once they interfere with your ability to work, sleep, or concentrate, it's time to explore evidence-based therapy so you can reset your body's alarm system.

How much checking is reasonable?

As mentioned, anyone can circle back around to their stove to see if they forgot the burner. But if you're getting stuck checking or spending an inordinate amount of time engaging in rituals, intrusive thoughts, or behaviors meant to soothe your anxiety, it's time to talk to a specialist.

Why isn't logic helping my anxiety or OCD?

Anxiety and OCD do not discriminate by intelligence. When fear and uncertainty surge, logical thinking often loses its influence, even when you know the worry does not make sense. If reassurance only brings brief relief before the doubt returns, this may be a sign of a looping anxiety pattern. Therapy can help retrain the brain to respond differently.

What if I'm just naturally high strung?

Anxiety or OCD is not the same thing as having a careful personality, or being detail oriented.

So what's the difference?

We're looking for functional impairment. If you're naturally cautious, that caution can help you succeed. You know how to channel and use your methodical nature to get things done.

If you're living with anxiety or OCD, these conditions may cause you great personal suffering instead. They typically begin to interfere with daily obligations. If you're struggling to work, study, or socialize, then a professional evaluation is the first step to regain your quality of life.

Ready to get started?

If part of you is questioning whether anxiety or OCD is impacting your life, it may be worth talking it through with someone trained to help. Speaking with one of our trained mental health professionals can provide you with diagnostic clarity and evidence-based tools to help you take back your life.

That's why OATH Therapy offers free consultations! You can book them online and get clarity on whether additional intervention is appropriate in your case. Contact us today!