Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a serious psychiatric disorder that affects a large number of people around the world. The disorder is so named because most of its symptoms are obsessions (repetitive upsetting thoughts like cleaning and checking things over and over again), and the ritualistic behaviors that follow are called compulsions. OCD also causes feelings of extreme panic, fear, and guilt. When left untreated, OCD can reach extreme levels, significantly impacting the patient’s relationships, home life, and career.
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for this disorder. On the other hand, various OCD help options exist that can effectively control and in many cases even eliminate the symptoms of this disorder. The various OCD help avenues are described below.
- Psychotherapy: This is without doubt the most widely used OCD help technique. Psychotherapy for OCD includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in which the patient is repetitively confronted with his/her obsessions and trained to avoid the ritualistic compulsive behavior that follows. CBT can significantly reduce the symptoms in mild to moderate cases of OCD. Many times therapists include group therapy and family therapy in the overall OCD help regimen.
- Medication: The SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) class of drugs is generally used to treat OCD in combination with psychotherapy. While these drugs are definitely effective, they can lead to dependence and other serious side-effects if taken improperly.
- Self-Help Groups: Various self-help groups have been formed on the internet where OCD sufferers discuss symptoms and various treatments for the disorder. Joining such groups can help patients realize that they are not alone and inform them about the various OCD help options that are currently available.
- Deep Brain Simulation: A new study has suggested that using electrodes to stimulate areas deep within the brain can significantly reduce the symptoms in severe cases of OCD which are generally resistant to mainstream treatment options. This OCD help option has the potential to turn into a near-complete cure for the disorder.
Combining the above mentioned OCD help methods with meditation and a nutrient rich diet will go a long way in helping OCD patients lead a normal and productive life free of anxiety and stress.