OCD therapy
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Introduction to OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviours (compulsions) that they feel the urge to repeat over and over. It affects millions worldwide and can significantly impair one's quality of life. However, with the right treatment, those affected can gain significant relief and lead productive lives.
What Causes OCD?
While the exact cause of OCD is unknown, a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioural, cognitive, and environmental factors are believed to contribute to its development. Research suggests that differences in the brain and genetic makeup of individuals with OCD may play a critical role, as can stressful life events and family history.
Symptoms of OCD
OCD is characterized by two main types of symptoms: obsessions and compulsions.
Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress or anxiety. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, having things in perfect order, aggressive or horrific thoughts, or unwanted thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning, ordering, checking, or repeating certain words or phrases.
It's important to note that OCD varies greatly from person to person. Not all individuals with OCD will experience both obsessions and compulsions.
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Treatment Options for OCD
Effective treatment for OCD can help manage symptoms, reduce the severity of obsessions and compulsions, and improve quality of life. The primary treatments for OCD are:
1. Psychological therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Specifically, a type of CBT known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is considered the most effective treatment for OCD. It involves gradually exposing the person to a feared obsession or object, such as intrusive thoughts or dirt, and teaching them healthy ways to cope with the anxiety.
In my practice I integrate relevant other therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) where appropriate. Where OCD is accompanied by complex emotions such as guilt and shame, elements of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) can be carefully integrated with CBT, ACT and DBT.
2. Medication
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These medications can help reduce OCD symptoms by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Common SSRIs used to treat OCD include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline, and paroxetine.
3. Combination treatment
For many, a combination of psychological therapy and medication provides the best results. In my practice, I work closely with psychiatrists to ensure a multi-pronged approach is used when necessary, where medication and psychological therapy are used in combination.