Just like any other mental disorder, OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder also has its treatment and cure. But unlike any other physical illness that manifests in your body and can be treated with medication, people suffering from OCD may take time to recover.
OCD treatment majorly consists of mental relaxation therapy that helps you calm your mind and divert it from the urge of obsessive and compulsive behaviors.
Here are seven tips that may help you succeed in your OCD treatment.
- Understanding Exposure and Response Prevention: Exposure and Response Prevention is the most common and highly recommended treatment method for OCD patients. As good as it sounds, rushing into one without fully knowing what to expect and how it works can often be a big mistake. Having a proper and well-trained therapist for your psychoeducation is a must. This is when you interact with your therapists and tell them what you feel. Your therapist may also suggest additional methods such as acceptance and commitment therapy alongside the ERP.
- Expect the unexpected and be prepared: You should be prepared for any uncomfortable experiences that you may face during your sessions. OCD treatments do not come with shortcuts, and thus, if you are willing to commit, you need to commit fully. Your willingness to be open with your problem can also indicate the degree of symptoms that you have. This is a perfect point to keep in mind before engaging in such treatment.
- It would help if you were honest with yourself: No one knows you better than yourself. What you have and what bothers you the most is only known to you. If you are unwilling to open up and be truthful to yourself, then any form of OCD treatment cannot help you. Be honest with your therapist. Your therapist needs to know whether you are comfortable with your ERP sessions or not.
- Do your homework: While weekly therapy sessions are very much necessary for a good treatment, doing your homework assignments given by your therapist is also a significant part of the process. OCD treatment requires constant practice, and if you are not doing your homework correctly, your therapist can not help you.
- Treat the treatment as a part of your life: you do not have to make a huge deal out of your therapy sessions. It is normal and healthy. Many people lose focus on their tasks after some time which leads to old habits coming back. Making your treatment a part of your daily life will always help you to be focused on your goal.
- Don’t be impatient: As we all know, there is no definitive cure for OCD, but with practice and time, you can easily manage it. Do not be unforgiving if the results are not seen sooner. It may take time, but eventually, you will heal.
Remember: never forget that you have OCD and how much you are fighting to get over it. Mental strength is one of the most crucial keys to manage and overcome obsessive and compulsive behaviors.
Summing it up, never forget that OCD is very paradoxical and how much you have fought to keep it in check. Always believe in your strength.
