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Treatment of OCD
OCD is a treatable disorder. At present it is not known how to eliminate one’s disposition toward it. However, one can control its symptoms and return to a relatively normal life by using strategies learned in cognitive/behavioral therapy either with or without medication. Cognitive therapy is a regimen through which individuals learn to change from unrealistic to realistic perceptions about themselves and the world around them. A behavioral therapy technique, exposure and response-prevention, teaches them to face what they fear without reacting in the habitual obsessive-compulsive manner. Various medications, usually the serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are available for reinforcing cognitive/behavioral therapy.
OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE CREED
Linda Gourley, a charter member of the G.O.A.L. Support Group, wrote
the following creed to help those dealing with OCD.
Today I am going to help myself by confronting uncomfortable situations, and discontinuing my rituals, for avoiding and ritualizing will only hurt me.
Today I will make an effort to expose myself to situations or objects I found difficult dealing with yesterday, for each day I do so, I move one step closer to my goal.
Today if I slip, I will immediately re-expose myself to the upsetting
object or situation, for confronting a fear is the only way to overcome
it.
Today if I find it hard to cope with my fears, I will call a friend, because encouragement and support always helps.
And last of all, I will try to keep in mind, that if I try just a little harder today, I will make living a little easier tomorrow.