Is OCD curable?
OCD is a lifelong condition and follows periods of remission and relapse. Sometimes, stress can trigger an episode of OCD. Medications are sometimes required in the long term to control symptoms reasonably. With modern treatment options, OCD can be kept under control in the long term.
How can I stop OCD?
Sometimes, trying to resist obsessive thoughts and compulsive rituals can be very anxiety-provoking. Hence, CBT techniques can be used to overcome OCD symptoms slowly.
Meanwhile, acceptance therapy, which focuses on accepting the thoughts, and mindfulness exercises, which focus on being mindful about the symptoms and letting go, can all help.
What is the best treatment for OCD?
The best treatment for OCD is a combination of medications and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. With just this, a vast majority of OCD symptoms can be overcome. However, you have to take these medications regularly and be followed up by your psychiatrist, who will prescribe accordingly and adjust the dose during follow-ups based on symptoms. Furthermore, meticulously following the CBT techniques can also help.
What medications are used to treat OCD?
The primary first-line treatment for OCD is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Additionally, sometimes people may need an add-on medication such as an antipsychotic or a mood stabiliser. N acetylcysteine in higher doses is found to be an effective treatment option for OCD.
How are SSRIs used differently to treat OCD compared to depression?
SSRI medications are used in depression, OCD and anxiety disorders. Typically, in OCD, higher doses of SSRIs are used than in depression. So, for example, SSRI fluoxetine is given at a dosage of 10-20 mg for depression. In contrast, in OCD, higher doses of 60 or even 80 mg may be required to achieve reasonable control of symptoms.
What are the medications used to treat resistant OCD?
Sometimes, OCD does not respond to standard guidelines of treatment. Hence, if OCD does not respond to at least two trials of SSRI treatment, then it is called treatment-resistant OCD. In that case, psychiatrists do what is known as “add on” of medications such as antipsychotic medications, mood stabilisers, etc.
How long does it take for medications to work in OCD?
Medications for OCD will not work immediately. This can be understandably frustrating since you may expect immediate relief. In the short term, some anti-anxiety medications can be given for quick relief. However, SSRI medications for OCD will typically take three weeks to start acting. Some people report even ten weeks to start seeing a response. It is essential to understand this as it can be why people discontinue early. Hence, adequate information and reassurance will be given, and you will be supported in complying with the medications.
How can I beat OCD without medications?
Non-pharmacological options for the treatment of OCD include Cognitive Behaviour therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy and relaxation exercises. However, in many moderate to severe OCD, people may be required to start on medications first to obtain a certain degree of control of symptoms before starting therapy. In Chennai Minds, the best Psychiatric Hospital in Chennai, on an outpatient basis, provides comprehensive treatment for OCD Treatment in Chennai.
