Understanding OCD Therapy From Your Psychiatrist

While obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental disorder, it is manageable with professional help. If you have been diagnosed with OCD, OCD therapy may bring the relief you are looking for. It is possible to break the obsessive-compulsive cycle and live the life you want.

How OCD therapy can help

OCD can leave people stuck in an endless cycle of unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that bring anxiety and repetitive behaviors that bring temporary relief (compulsion). This is known as the obsessive-compulsive cycle. It can latch on to almost anything, and it will cause the patient to stake the most interest in whatever they care about the most. Common obsessions may include:

• Contamination OCD. Obsessive fear of germs, getting sick, or getting others sick.
• Relationship OCD. Obsessively second-guessing and overthinking whether they can trust their feelings about their partner.
• Harm OCD. Obsessive fears relating to accidentally harming others, such as being scared to use knives in the kitchen or drive.

There are many other forms of OCD. Fortunately, no matter what OCD theme a patient has, it is possible to manage it with OCD therapy. It is important to note that treatment will bring different levels of relief for each patient. The ultimate goal is to help reduce the time spent on compulsions, learn how not to be as occupied by obsessions, and live the life they want.

What is OCD therapy?

The standard treatment for OCD therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) called exposure and response prevention (ERP). This therapeutic model involves gradually exposing patients to whatever triggers their obsessions. Then, the psychiatrist will give them the tools not to respond to these obsessions with compulsions. The patient typically starts with their least distressing obsession and eventually moves on to their worst, most time-consuming ones.

According to a study in Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, ERP has been shown to be effective in about 80% of those with OCD. Therefore, this OCD therapy is considered the first line of treatment for the disorder.

When medication for OCD is recommended

OCD therapy can be difficult to move through. Patients are, after all, facing their worst fears every day. It is also a known phenomenon to cycle through different OCD themes as one progresses through therapy. Medication can help make the whole process easier. 

A psychiatrist will typically recommend a high dose of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as sertraline, fluoxetine, or paroxetine. Patients can either take prescription medications for the short term, to help with their OCD therapy, or for the long term. Ask a psychiatrist which route may benefit the patient; they will work to find a solution that fits their needs and goals.

Consult a psychiatrist about OCD therapy

OCD can be distressing, but many patients find it is more common and treatable than they initially thought. With the help of a psychiatrist, it is possible to escape its shackles and live a fuller life. Call us today to learn more about our OCD therapy services or to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://pushwellnesshealth.com or call Push Wellness Health at (480) 737-4658 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

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