People with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) perform routines or rituals that can take up hours in a day. Unfortunately, these people can’t control the repetitive and unwanted thoughts and behaviors that are getting in the way of their daily life. These behaviors are compulsive and can get more severe at times. If someone is exhibiting symptoms of OCD, doctors may refer them to mental health professionals in OCD treatment centers.
OCD Treatment Centers: What To Expect
Treatment plans that specifically target OCD are imperative to reducing or eliminating the disorder. OCD treatment centers will provide patients with individualized attention and tailored treatment options depending on each individual’s case; they can provide treatment for all degrees of OCD and related disorders.
Many OCD treatment centers use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of psychotherapy, to help patients learn ways to effectively manage and reduce the severity and frequency of OCD episodes. Oftentimes, psychotherapy will be accompanied by medication. The most commonly prescribed medications for OCD include anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants. OCD treatment centers will also engage in medical monitoring during the treatment process, especially if a patient is undergoing both treatment methods.
How OCD Treatment Centers Tackle Co-Existing Disorders
OCD is often accompanied with other co-occurring issues such as depression or anxiety disorders. OCD treatment centers are generally prepared to handle related illnesses and conditions associated with OCD. Some of the related illnesses that OCD treatment centers will treat alongside OCD are:
• Depression
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Phobias
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• OC-Spectrum Disorders
• Stress
Other disorders that may have similar qualities involving repetitive thoughts and behaviors are sometimes referred to as obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, or OC-spectrum disorders. Mental health professionals in OCD treatment centers will be able to identify the exact symptoms of your OCD and if any OC-spectrum disorders are also involved.
Seeking Help from OCD Treatment Centers
The commonality of OCD has made it a highly studied disorder, making effective treatment methods readily available. Don’t be afraid to talk to your family doctor if you think you may be exhibiting symptoms of OCD. OCD treatment centers have been established to help patients overcome the disorder and return to their regular lives, free of routine and ritual. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can eliminate your OCD.