Does OCD Get Worse With Age? Understanding the Journey Through Life with OCD
If you’ve ever asked, “Does OCD get worse with age?”, you’re not alone. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition that can change over time—sometimes improving, sometimes becoming more intense. The good news? With the right treatment, support, and understanding, it doesn’t have to get worse.
At BrainBody Wellness Counseling, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals living with OCD in all life stages. Whether you're searching for an OCD therapist near me or exploring self-help resources like OCD books, this guide is here to help.
Can OCD Get Worse Over Time?
Yes, for some people, OCD symptoms may become more severe with age—especially when left untreated. Increased stress, hormonal changes, major life transitions, or unresolved trauma can all influence how OCD shows up. Obsessions may become more intrusive, and compulsions may take up more time or energy.
That said, OCD doesn’t have to get worse. With early intervention and ongoing support, people often learn to manage symptoms more effectively, even as they grow older.
Finding the Right Support: Why Therapy Matters
OCD is treatable—but not all therapy approaches work equally well. Research shows the most effective treatments for OCD are:
ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
Metacognitive Therapy (MCT)
Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)
These approaches help people change their relationship with intrusive thoughts, reduce compulsions, and regain confidence. If you’re looking for an OCD therapist near me, make sure they’re trained in one or more of these evidence-based methods.
At BrainBody Wellness Counseling, our team is trained in ERP, ACT and other OCD-specific approaches to support lasting change.
When to Seek Help
You don’t have to wait for OCD to get worse before seeking support. If you or someone you care about is experiencing:
Increasing time spent on rituals or obsessive thoughts
Avoidance of important people or places
Distress about the nature of their thoughts
Symptoms interfering with daily functioning
…that’s a sign it’s time to talk with a trained professional. You deserve support that works.
Let’s Talk—You’re Not Alone
If you’ve been searching for an OCD therapist near me in Arizona, we’re here for you. At BrainBody Wellness Counseling, our licensed therapists specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and related conditions using the most effective, research-backed methods available. We work with teens, adults, and parents of children experiencing OCD.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or simply curious about your next steps—we offer a warm, non-judgmental space to begin.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a free consultation with BrainBody Wellness Counseling today. Together, we’ll find a path forward—one that respects your experience, supports your growth, and helps you feel more like you again.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
International OCD Foundation. (2023). https://iocdf.org
Abramowitz, J. S. (2009). The Family Guide to Getting Over OCD. Oxford University Press.
Grayson, J. B. (2014). Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Winston, S., & Seif, M. (2017). Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts.
