Treatment to help overcome Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
The term ‘OCD’ is branded in today’s culture as excessively orderly or meticulous in nature. The increased use of the term has the advantage of bringing the condition to the attention of society. However Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is being misinterpreted and misunderstood. The reality is that OCD can be a distressing and debilitating mental health disorder.
What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
OCD is characterised by obsessions and compulsions which significantly disrupt individuals’ daily lives. Obsessions are recurrent, intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images or urges which provoke anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behavioural or mental rituals which aim to reduce levels of anxiety. Sufferers of OCD can recognise that their thoughts and obsessions can be irrational and excessive. OCD is complicated and individuals find it extremely challenging to break free from the cycle of obsessions, anxiety and compulsions.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) as treatment to help sufferers manage or overcome their OCD.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Obsessive Thinking
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy teaches individuals with OCD that intrusive thoughts are common. It allows people to understand how they are interacting with their thoughts. It helps them to recognise and challenge the fear and discomfort surrounding their intrusive thoughts or images. Thoughts are not the problem within OCD, it is how individuals react to the thought that causes distress.
Exposure and Response Prevention
Exposure and Response Prevention aims to weaken obsessive thoughts and subsequent compulsions. OCD sufferers are gradually exposed to conditions which provoke obsessions. They are encouraged to resist urges to carry out compulsions. This allows individuals to realise that levels of anxiety can reduce without carrying out neutralising behaviours. This treatment has been widely researched and is used successfully worldwide.
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