What is the Treatment of OCD? (Effective Methods & Therapies)

Effective Treatment Option for OCD Disorder: Methods that help manage symptoms

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-term mental health condition where unwanted thoughts (obsessions) lead to repetitive actions (compulsions). These habits can take up a lot of time and disrupt daily life.

While everyone double-checks things now and then, OCD is much more intense and hard to control. People with OCD don't enjoy doing these actions as they do them to feel less anxious.

Read more to gain a better understanding of how OCD affects daily life and effective ways to manage it.

How is OCD Treated?

OCD is usually treated with a mix of therapies and medication to help manage the symptoms.

If those don’t work and the OCD is more serious, the doctor might suggest transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) — a non-invasive treatment that generally uses magnetic pulses to improve brain function.

What are the Psychotherapies for OCD?

If an individual is living with OCD, psychotherapy can be an effective way to manage their thoughts and behaviors. Here are some of the most effective methods to treat OCD:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy):This therapy helps you recognize and replace harmful thoughts with healthier ones.
• ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention):It gradually exposes you to fears while helping you resist the urge to engage in compulsions.
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy):This therapy teaches you to accept obsessive thoughts without letting them control your actions.
• Mindfulness & Relaxation:Several practices, like meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce anxiety and even promote overall emotional well-being.
   

These therapies can make a huge difference in how one copes with OCD each day.

What are the Medications for OCD?

Doctors often treat OCD with special medications that help balance brain chemicals, mainly a group called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

These medicines are generally prescribed for anxiety or depression, but are also given in high amounts when treating OCD. Some FDA-approved SSRIs for OCD mainly include:

• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Paroxetine
• Sertraline
   

However, you should keep in mind that these medications can take 8 to 12 weeks to show results, so patience is key.

What are the Other Treatment Options for OCD?

Here are other alternative treatments available for severe OCD, in case the therapies and medications aren't enough:

• Intensive Programs:These programs generally focus on ERP therapy and are best for people with serious symptoms. They usually run for several weeks in a clinic or healthcare center.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): This is a rare treatment where tiny devices are placed in the brain to send electrical signals. It’s approved for adults who haven’t responded to other treatments.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):This non-surgical method generally uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. It’s FDA-approved and can help when other treatments don’t work.
   

However, it is always essential to consult your healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits before trying these options.

What are the Side Effects of OCD Medications?

Certain medications used to treat OCD may cause side effects. Some of these include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Feeling anxious, restless, or shaky
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
   

Note: In very rare cases, these medications can lead to suicidal thoughts or urges to cause self-harm. If this happens, contact your healthcare provider or visit the nearest emergency room immediately.

Most side effects tend to improve after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication, but some may last longer.

What is OCD Treatment During Pregnancy?

If you’re pregnant or planning to conceive, medications for OCD can still be prescribed, but this will usually depend on whether the benefits outweigh any risks. For the best outcome, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider to choose the right treatment for both your health and your baby's well-being.

OCD can be effectively managed with therapy, medication, and sometimes advanced treatments such as DBS or TMS. If you're struggling with OCD, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for finding the right treatment plan.

In addition, you can protect your health and well-being with comprehensive coverage from Star Health Insurance while ensuring access to the best treatments and care when you need it most.