OCD Treatment
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a complex and often misunderstood condition. It goes beyond simple quirks or a desire for cleanliness, representing a severe mental health concern that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. At Waterview Behavioral Health, we specialize in OCD treatment in Connecticut, offering evidence-based therapeutic interventions to help individuals regain control over their lives.
Recognizing OCD: Symptoms and Impact
OCD manifests through intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform. These can range from excessive cleaning or hand washing, incessant checking, or disturbing thoughts that are difficult to control. Our team is skilled at recognizing the signs of OCD and creating tailored treatment plans to address the specific needs of each individual. We are excited to be offering our approach for OCD treatment in Connecticut at Waterview Behavioral Health.
OCD FAQs
Q1. What medication is best for OCD?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, sertraline, or fluvoxamine, are first-line medications for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). They are often combined with therapy to provide the best treatment for OCD.
Q2. What is the gold standard treatment for OCD?
The gold standard is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, often combined with SSRIs for optimal results. ERP is widely considered the best therapy for OCD.
Q3. How do I treat OCD?
OCD treatment typically involves ERP therapy guided by a trained therapist, medication management by a psychiatrist, and lifestyle support to reduce stress and improve coping skills. Some people explore OCD treatment without medication when they prefer a therapy-only approach.
Q4. What is the new treatment for OCD?
In addition to ERP and medication, newer treatments include repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) for severe, treatment-resistant OCD.
Q5. What is the hardest type of OCD to treat?
All OCD can be challenging, but harm-related obsessions, “pure-O” (obsessions without visible compulsions), and severe contamination fears often require longer or more intensive treatment. In some cases, an OCD intensive outpatient program provides additional structure and support.
Q6. What are common OCD obsessions?
Common obsessions include fears of contamination, unwanted thoughts of harming others, excessive need for symmetry, religious or moral doubts (scrupulosity), or intense fear of making mistakes.
Q7. What helps OCD go away?
OCD is generally chronic, but many people achieve significant relief with ERP therapy, proper medication, and ongoing support. Early and consistent treatment improves outcomes.
Q8. What are the causes of OCD?
OCD arises from a combination of genetic predisposition, brain chemistry differences (particularly serotonin regulation), and environmental factors like stress or traumatic experiences.
Q9. Is OCD inherited from the mother or the father?
OCD has a genetic component, but it is not inherited in a strictly maternal or paternal pattern. A family history of OCD or anxiety increases risk.
Q10. Is OCD a neurotic or psychotic disorder?
OCD is classified as an anxiety-related disorder, historically considered under the “neurotic” category. It is not a psychotic disorder.