Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Treatment – How effective is it really?

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterised by intrusive thoughts and compulsions or rituals that the person does to rid themselves of the intrusive thoughts. Everybody experiences intrusive thoughts, but people with OCD struggle to detach themselves from the intrusive thoughts and can become increasingly anxious. It is thought that around 1 in 40 people in the United States have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Half of these people find their lives are significantly impaired by the disorder. To those suffering with it, it might be hard to imagine that obsessive compulsive disorder treatment does exist.

 Myths about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

You may have heard people say that they are, “so OCD,”, in relation to how tidy or neat they are. This is a common misconception about obsessive compulsive disorder, or rather, it is commonly not realised that OCD is the abbreviation for obsessive compulsive disorder. A lot of people treat the term ‘OCD’ as if it is an adjective, when this is not the case. People who have OCD are not always neat and tidy. OCD can relate to superstitious beliefs, a fear of harming others, unpleasant sexual thoughts, and many more things.

 How can you help someone who has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

Although obsessive compulsive disorder can be very severe, it is possible to treat. Obsessive compulsive disorder treatment is specialist, but usually extremely effective if that person is ready to go through treatment. Having said this, people with OCD have a tendency towards obsession. This means that although treatment may help them to improve, they will need to be vigilant if they find their obsessions creeping in again.

 How does obsessive compulsive disorder treatment work?

Usually, treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder involves talking therapies, for example cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure response prevention therapy. Exposure response prevention therapy works by exposing the person who has OCD to their triggers, and delaying their compulsions. It is important to follow guidance from a professional during this treatment, rather than do it yourself. This is because if too big a step is made, it can increase anxiety too much and make it even more difficult for the patient. Medication like serotonin sensitive reuptake inhibitors can also be included in treatment for OCD, as they help to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. 

However, medication alone would not be enough in most cases. Although obsessive compulsive disorder can become very severe, it is never too late to seek treatment. Treatment may be difficult, but has been proven to be very effective in helping those with the disorder.

 Are some people more predisposed to OCD?

Genetics play a huge part in the risk of developing OCD. They’re thought to be around 50% responsible. If someone has a close family member suffering with obsessive compulsive disorder, they’re more likely to. It is also thought that other mental illnesses can increase the risk too, as a lot of people with OCD have other mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. It can be worsened by stress, but stress isn’t the main cause. OCD can also be brought on by childhood trauma and big life events.