Alester Brown

Best Treatments for OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition that stems from unreasonable fears or thoughts. It can cause individuals to perform repetitive, compulsive behaviours. OCD can affect anyone at any age and dramatically affect a person's quality of life. There are many treatment options available, but what are the most effective?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Many mental health professionals consider cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) the most effective treatment for OCD. CBT is a type of psycho-social intervention that involves getting to the root of OCD-related fears and changing how an individual uses them to cope with difficult situations. It's talk therapy that can successfully treat a wide range of mental health issues.

Many forms of CBT exist. For OCD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) has the most evidence to support its use as an OCD treatment.

During ERP, mental health professionals carefully expose individuals to the triggering situations in a safe environment. The goal is to challenge the negative thoughts and fears that lead to compulsive behaviour. Through exposure, people can learn healthier coping mechanisms. While it doesn't remove stressful thoughts entirely, it can change an individual's perspective and help them live healthier lives.

Like other forms of therapy, ERP takes time and vigilance. There is no traditional cure for OCD, but this treatment can make a significant difference.

Medications

Another OCD treatment that many mental health experts recommend is medication. More specifically, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are widely used antidepressants. They help increase serotonin levels in the brain, positively influencing a person's mood. They can help improve how individuals manage their emotions and may help decrease compulsive behaviours.

Generally, mental health care providers recommend a combination of SSRI medications alongside ERP. Roughly seven out of ten people with OCD will benefit.

OCD is a unique condition that doesn't have a universal cure or treatment option. It affects everyone differently. ERP therapy and medications can dramatically improve how a person deals with OCD, but it all depends on each case. The best thing an individual with OCD can do is work with a therapist and seek professional help.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown writes about mental and physical health. She advises people on Paediatrician & online Psychiatrist consultation. You can find her thoughts at mental health therapy blog.