Our Blog: Upward Alabama

Understanding OCD: Intrusive Thoughts About Violence, Pedophilia, and Suicide

By Misti Norton, Ph.D., DBSM

OCD

Treatment

Posted: June 7, 2026

OCD is a chronic mental health condition characterized by persistent, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety. While many people associate OCD with cleanliness or checking behaviors, the disorder often presents with a wide range of obsessions, some of which can be deeply distressing and misunderstood, such as those involving causing harm to others, pedophilia, and suicide.

Aging With OCD: Understanding Symptoms, Finding Support, and Reclaiming Your Life

By Misti Norton, Ph.D., DBSM

OCD

Posted: April 15, 2026

OCD doesn’t fade with age, and it doesn’t always look the same from one decade to the next. Many older adults find that symptoms shift as life circumstances change—retirement, health concerns, caregiving roles, and the loss of loved ones can all create new openings for OCD to take hold. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward getting the right support and building a life guided by values rather than fear.

Plan for Good Mental Health

By Misti Norton, Ph.D., DBSM

Self-Care ADHD Autism Stress

Posted: February 7, 2026

As we approached the new year, I saw a few jokes about how it was now time to buy the annual notebook that would change your life. Now, as the calendar turns to February, I see posts suggesting that many people have already abandoned their planners—and their goals—for the year. It’s easy to conclude that planning doesn’t work and that you might as well give up on the life you desire. Here’s the good news: you can start working toward good mental health just as effectively in February, April, July, or even December as you can in January.

Childhood OCD

By Misti Norton, Ph.D., DBSM

OCD Children

Posted: November 17, 2025

OCD can first appear at any age, but individuals seem to get symptoms most commonly at either ages 7-12 or in the late teens/young adult years. Research shows us that individuals who develop OCD in childhood are more likely to have a family history of OCD or similar disorders. Additionally, childhood OCD often doesn’t come alone—it tends to show up with other disorders like depression, anxiety, tic disorders, ADHD, and autism. Additionally, because there is significant overlap among symptoms, children may be misdiagnosed.