OCD, better known as obsessive-compulsive disorder, is an anxiety disorder. Their behavior is driven by fears and irrational thoughts. These are termed obsessions and are medically known as compulsions.
People who suffer from OCD, do understand that their thoughts are not rational. Their repetitive patterns are unreasonable and despite knowing it, they cannot ignore them. If they try to avoid these thoughts, it further compounds feelings of anxiety and stress.
There are different treatments for it, for instance, therapy and OCD outpatient treatment programs, etc. However, understanding what ignites OCD and how it can be treated is important, especially if you are diagnosed with it.
Here is a brief guide to OCD; let’s dig in!
What Causes OCD?
There is no definite cause known for OCD yet. There are different theories regarding it.
A theory says that several environmental factors can instigate OCD. Another one states that it can be caused due to behavioral habits as well. It can also be due to biological patterns. Higher cognitive behavior can also lead to OCD.
There is no definite cause of this disorder. Thus, it is recommended that you always get a proper diagnosis done. Just like substance abuse treatment or a major illness is treated only by an expert; you must rely on an experienced therapist to help you.
Is there a Cure for OCD?
There is no definite or permanent cure for this disease. However, there are many programs that allow people to lead normal lives by offering relief from the symptoms. There are some patients that do not respond to the therapies or treatment programs sometimes. But the therapist usually finds a way out for all types of individuals struggling with OCD.
Here are a few therapies that are usually opted for, for obsessive-compulsive disorder:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
This form of therapy can take place individually or in groups. There are further different types of this therapy. Some of them focus on exposing the patient to their obsession or fear. This therapy does take a lot of time and effort.
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Medical Assisted OCD Therapy:
This therapy is based upon medicines and only certain medications are prescribed for this. The therapist carries out a detailed diagnosis and then prescribes medicines accordingly.
Is OCD Therapy Beneficial?
The benefits of OCD therapies are not limited to outpatient or inpatient treatments. They largely vary from person to person. And for some, the therapies do not result to be advantageous either. Therefore, there is no definite set of benefits that one can enlist for OCD therapies yet. Further studies and research are still under process at the moment.
CONCLUSION:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is still being studied and evaluated and will further take time to come to a certain conclusion. However, at the given time, there is no definite treatment for it and it cannot be cured completely. But different therapies can bring a difference in the symptoms and help one gain relief from them to lead a much more normal life.