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| Guide to Recovering from PTSD Contents Introduction information copyright | What are compulsions? Behaviours that are repeated in an effort to avoid fear and anxiety caused by obsessions may become compulsions. Compulsive behaviour is specific according to rules and rituals set by the individual. Common compulsions include chronic hand washing, cleaning the same room or object repeatedly, over grooming, or repeating a song or word uncontrollably. Some sufferers “check” objects, such as door locks, appliances to see if they are turned off, drawers to be sure they are shut, or turning a light on and off. Ordering from Home Shopping, collecting items, saving something, needing constant approval or making phone calls may become a compulsion. You may be able to think of something personalthat nearly became a compulsion in life but you were able to get help. Perhaps you are seeking help right now? Like other symptoms of PTSD, compulsions may be controlled at low levels with support and encouragement. Order, frugality, and neatness works for most people on some level. This is when people might say, “OCD (Obsessive Compulsive disorder) is ok forme.” But when compulsions are strong they become a force that can paralyze everyday life in the strongest of individuals. Treatment can offer reliev and support. You are not alone. There are reasons for how you think and what you are doing. Step out of the box and begin to heal. You have the power to make that call.
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What can I do with my compulsions? You can recover and be free from the pain of performing these rituals. You will learn why you do them and recognize triggers to the acts. You and your counselor will become therapeutic detectives working to gain clues as to how everyday behaviours became compulsions. In m any cases repeptitive behaviours have been going on, on some level, for a long time. You will learn positive coping skills and specific exercises with which to face obsessions, fears, or anxieties. Learning to rethink takes time. It is important to allow yourself time. Many veterans have a firm framework about life and have to work with their counselor to forma new way to look at their life outside the service even if they have OUT for years. Your Vet Center staff can assess your needs and make appropriate referrals. In time, with support, you will be free from the power of the compulsions.
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