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Mental/Behavior Case Study

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Mental/Behavioral Case Study
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April 27, 2015

Mental/Behavioral Case Study
Jim Wolfe is a 45 year old owner of an auto parts store. He is constantly washing his hands, rechecking his parts list, equipment, and employee schedules. His wife raises concerns about his work performance and his inability to sleep and convinces him to see his physician. He gets a referral to see a psychiatrist and is diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
OCD is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears that lead a person into repetitive behaviors. It has two parts: obsessive and compulsive. The obsessive portion relates to a person’s repetitive thoughts and emotions. The compulsive part concerns the person’s inability to resist the repetitive actions. Trying to ignore or stop these thoughts only create more anxiety and stress. (Neighbors, 2015, Chapter 21).
Based on the onset of the disease and the symptoms that Jim is displaying, he should receive a primary level of care. Treating OCD early can reduce the symptoms and the disruption that this disease can cause in daily life. Treatment for OCD consists of medications and behavior therapy. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the doctor may only prescribe counseling. Medications such as anti-depressants or tricyclic anti-depressants help to relieve obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors and help balance brain chemicals (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d.). Receiving both types of treatment will help Jim be able to cope with his life without the constant anxiety about his obsessions and compulsions.
Jim and other people who have OCD can find more information on the cause, effect and treatment options that are available from their primary care providers. There are also several websites and medical journals that contain helpful information. The National

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