OCD Treatment

Not to be confused with perfectionism or meticulous behavior, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric anxiety disorder characterized by recurring, uncontrollable thoughts and/or obsessions, and by ritualized tasks or behaviors an individual feels compelled to perform.

Obsessions are unmanageable thoughts, images, and impulses, which appear over and over again in the individual’s mind that are not reality-based. These involuntary worries and thoughts are accompanied by distressing feelings or obsessions, of fear, disgust, doubt, or the constant concern tasks should be done a certain way. What are some of the common obsessions? 

• Fear of being contaminated by germs or dirt
• Fear of not having items needed, or misplacing them
• Violent, sexual images or thoughts
• Worry of causing harm to oneself or others
• Extremely superstitious (concerns over the lucky and unlucky)
• Everything must be in order and symmetrical
• Severe focus on moral and religious ideas     

A compulsion is the repetitive behavior or rituals which come in response to the obsessive thoughts and concerns. Although the individual believes this behavior will relieve the obsession, they may experience more anxiety and stress. An example would be if the individual is worried about being contaminated by germs, he or she might obsessively vacuum and shampoo the carpet. The carpet cleaning becomes an intricate and time-consuming compulsion. Individuals are often not aware of their unrealistic, irrational fears and compulsions. Common compulsive behaviors include:

• Cleaning
• Hand washing
• Need to excessively double-check
• Systematic counting or sorting
• Hoarding
• Touching/ordering/arranging
• Praying
• Fear of “going crazy”

Although, medical professional are still unsure of how OCD develops, some experts believe the disorder is related to a feeling of lack of control rooted in an unstable childhood experience. Doctors consider genetics to be a possible factor, but studies are still being conducted. Other theories on what causes OCD, such as major life changes, streptococcal infection, and illness are still being researched. 

OCD treatments (obsessive compulsive disorder treatment) are not a ‘cure’, but have shown to be effective in decreasing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior. The favored combination of medication and behavioral therapy seems to offer the greatest opportunity for long-term improvement. 

Exposure and response therapy shows the most significant results in OCD treatment. The individual experiencing this type of OCD therapy will be continually exposed to the resource of their obsession, and then be prohibited from engaging in their compulsive ritual to relieve the anxiety triggered by the obsession. The individual seeking this OCD help will learn to mange their anxiety and control it in a healthy, freeing way.

Cognitive therapy is another component of treatment for OCD. It focuses on targeting the intrusive thoughts and ideas, and will aid the individual in challenging the negative thoughts and feelings.  

Anti-depressants like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft are used to increase the serotonin levels in the individual’s brain. Medication, although shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms, causes a high relapse rate when discontinued. Very few individuals experience full relief with medication alone.

Family therapy is a recommended method of OCD support. Motivation to understand OCD, give loving support, and diminish family conflicts, can be achieved through family therapy.

OCD support groups, or group therapy, are a helpful and comforting way to interact, encourage, and support other individuals who suffer with OCD. They are also a beneficial outlet to lessen feelings of isolation.

Some methods for OCD self help include:

• Educating yourself about OCD through books, the internet, and doctors
• Exercise the skills you have been taught in therapy
• Remain closely connected to friends, family, and support groups