When OCD is brought up in conversation, many are apt to characterize it with individuals seeking perfectionism with a high concern for germs. However, these stereotypical ideas are far from illustrating the truth of the matter. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is characterized by the presence of often irrational obsessions and compulsions. 

Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger distress, while compulsions are behaviors that an individual engages in to attempt to get rid of these obsessions and subsequent distress.

While there may be no definitive “cure” for this anxiety disorder, significant relief is possible at an OCD and anxiety treatment center. 

Stop the Loop

When a person’s obsessions and compulsions start to affect their daily life, an OCD and anxiety treatment center may be able to help “stop the loop.” This means attempting to free the patient from their unwanted, intrusive thoughts and rituals.  The severity of the disorder varies greatly between cases; however, its effects can ultimately make life intensely uncomfortable. Receiving the right care and treatment options are key to living a more fulfilling life with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

Diagnosis

Before being treated at an OCD and anxiety treatment center, it is imperative that patients get accurately diagnosed. With an accurate diagnosis, psychiatrists and therapists will know exactly how to help them. Diagnoses often include psychiatric and mental health evaluations that follow the general steps below:

Patients will sit down with specialists and discuss their thoughts, feelings, symptoms, and behavior patterns. The specialists will be able to recognize if the patient is suffering from obsessive or compulsive behaviors that interfere with their quality of life.  Based on their answers and the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, the medical professionals can determine if the diagnosis is warranted. After receiving an accurate diagnosis, patients can begin specialized treatment.

Outpatient Treatment

OCD and anxiety treatment centers often use two effective methods for treatment: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. These two methods are considered “first-line” treatments for OCD and have proven to be successful for 70% of patients.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This type of psychotherapy can be extremely effective in treating patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It is often paired with exposure and response prevention (ERP) which involves gradually exposing the patient to an object related to their obsession in order to develop methods to resist their urge to complete the compulsive ritual. CBT paired with ERP requires a lot of effort and practice; however, it can effectively decrease the patient’s anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Medication

A psychiatrist at an OCD and anxiety treatment center will be able to prescribe medication that would ideally work in conjunction with CBT. These medications can help control a patient’s obsessions and compulsions on a chemical level. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed first, which could include Zoloft and Prozac. Together, you and your psychiatrist will determine the best medication for you.

Other Treatment Options

Depending on how severe a patient’s OCD symptoms are, more intensive therapy options may need to be considered.

• Intensive Outpatient

Includes daily group or individual therapy sessions for a specified amount of weeks.

• Partial Hospitalization

Includes receiving daily treatment at an OCD and anxiety treatment center for specified hours during the week.

• Inpatient

Includes treatment to stabilize the patient in a private unit until transitioning to an outpatient level of care.

Which OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center is Right for You?

Are you or a loved one struggling with OCD or another anxiety disorder? Help is available at Ocean Mental Health Services. We offer a wide range of effective outpatient and supportive care services for those struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. With over 60 years of experience providing counseling and creating an atmosphere of support and understanding, Ocean Mental Health Services will prove to be the best option for you and your loved ones. We will be here to guide you through every step along the way as we build a better tomorrow for you and your family together. Reach out to our team of compassionate professionals today to start your journey to freedom and fulfillment.