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counseling and psychiatric services for adolescents and young adults
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Jan Hamilton
, MS, PMHNP,
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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Dear Friend of Doorways,
This month I wanted to share with you about a particular type of OCD that we see in the 13-25 year olds we treat for anxiety disorders. It's a type of obsessive compulsive disorder known as "Scrupulosity."
It can be missed or rationalized since it appears that the person is just being "good" at following their faith.
Scrupulosity is a type of OCD rooted in irrational, distorted thoughts (obsessions) related to one's religious beliefs, morals, or personal ethics. An individual with Scrupulosity experiences these unwanted thoughts as being at odds with their faith, their relationship with God, or their moral and ethical values.
Those afflicted with Scrupulosity fear that their effort to live according to their spiritual values not only isn't good enough, but is in direct violation of God.
As with all types of
OCD
, the individual with Scrupulosity responds to their obsessions with compulsive behaviors that they employ in an effort to reduce, eliminate, or reverse their unwanted thoughts
and the anxiety they cause.
Scrupulosity
becomes a clinical issue when an individual's behaviors are motivated by a desire to control anxiety rather than the pursuit of a genuine connection to their faith, morals, or ethics.
Scrupulosity is not just limited to one faith. We see young people of all faiths and religions experiencing this type of OCD.
Common compulsions may include:
- Repeated and ritualized confessing
- Excessive, ritualized praying and/or reading of the Bible or other religious texts
- Repeating specific verses from the Bible or other religious texts
- Excessive acts of self-sacrifice (i.e., giving away relatively large amounts of money or earthly possessions, not eating certain foods, not doing certain activities)
- Avoidance of situations in which one fears the onset of obsessions related to issues of faith (i.e., church, temple, mosque, prayers, movies with devil themes, dating)
- Avoidance of certain objects that one associates with immorality or sin
- Making deals with God to avoid eternal damnation
At Doorways, we understand the significance of faith-based issues and how people can get distorted views of the tenets of their faith.
Our therapists are uniquely qualified to provide treatment for Scrupulosity and other issues related to faith, regardless of what that faith is.
If you know a young person who is struggling with these issues, we can help.
We always offer a free consultation to parents and caregivers. Just give us a call to discuss what options are available to help the young person you love.
We are here for you,
Jan Hamilton, MS, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
602-997-2880
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Meet Dr. David Yee, Psy.D., Psychologist
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Dr. Yee earned his doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Argosy University. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings with adolescents and young adults and was also a youth pastor for 10 years.
Dr. Yee is an expert in treating OCD (and Scrupulosity). He uses a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems therapies to assist teens and their families through the healing process.
In addition to psychotherapy services, Dr. Yee offers a wide range of psychological testing evaluations for ADHD, academic achievement, personality assessment, cognitive ability, and more.
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Open Groups at Doorways
Adolescent Eating Disorders IOP for ages 13-18
This ED IOP is 3 days per week, a total of 10 hours per week. Open enrollment, join any time.
Anxiety Disorders/OCD IOP for ages 13-17
For those adolescents who suffer with the effects of OCD and severe anxiety in their lives, this IOP will be of great benefit towards overcoming their symptoms.
DBT Skills IOP for ages 13-17
The DBT Skills IOP program gives adolescents the tools they need to have successful relationships and boundaries. DBT is a highly interactive skills-based group program. It's not a program where you just sit.
DBT 101 - Skills Group for Teens Ages 13-18
DBT 101 is a psychoeducational group for teenagers age 13-18. This group focuses on teaching healthy coping skills through mindfulness strategies. DBT has an "open door" policy; you may join at any time!
If you know anyone who may benefit from any of our group programs, please don't hesitate to give us a call at 602.997.2880.
We are also contracted with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and United Behavioral Healthcare for our IOP's.
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Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Teen Manage OCD
The adolescent years can be difficult, but if you have a teen with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) you are faced with additional obstacles as a parent.
Know that you are not alone on this journey. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), OCD affects about one in one-hundred school-age children. Once you gain an understanding of OCD, know that there are treatment options available for your adolescent.
Read More
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Perfectionist vs OCD
It is easy to confuse the difference between perfectionist vs OCD. You see the acronym OCD being used in social media every day. Here's an example from
Twitter: "52 Home Organization Tips for Your OCD Side." Unfortunately, this casual characterization of OCD minimizes the seriousness of the real disease.
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OCD in Young Adults
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) afflicts people of all ages. However, it can be particularly difficult for young people who are just beginning their journey as independent adults.
Read More
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