How Does Psychiatric Support Help People With OCD?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition distinguished by a pattern of constant unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behavioural responses or actions taken by the individual to stop those thoughts (compulsions). These compulsions can consume a significant part of a person's life and can sometimes be an obstacle to their daily functioning. According to research, 2.3 % of the population has experienced OCD in their lifetime, affecting all genders equally.

If left untreated, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can lead to further mental health concerns like severe anxiety or depression. This can adversely affect family and social relationships. It can also significantly impact education and employment.  

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What is the Most Effective Treatment for OCD? 

• Fortunately, a treatment path for OCD does exist. OCD can be treated effectively with the involvement of both psychiatry and psychotherapy. Although OCD cannot be “cured” indefinitely, with the help of psychiatry and psychotherapy, the effects of OCD on your day-to-day life can be significantly reduced. This can help you function more efficiently.
• A psychiatrist plays a significant role in diagnosing OCD and further prescribing medication for the condition if needed. The diagnosis is given by a psychological evaluation and using the diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-5). In some cases, a physical evaluation is also done. Following a diagnosis, a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist may work together to form and regulate your course of treatment.
• In several cases, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), along with the right medication, has shown promising results in treating OCD. ERP is a type of therapy practised by a therapist to treat OCD. In ERP, you are exposed to your triggers and intrusive thoughts in a controlled environment and trained not to act on your compulsive actions. 

Certain psychiatric medications have been shown to have an impact on the obsessions and compulsions related to OCD. Doctors prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as an initial medication for the treatment of OCD. Although SSRIs are a class of antidepressants, they have been shown to have a significant impact on the lives of patients diagnosed with OCD.

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Types and Treatments for OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can appear in various forms, often centred around specific themes. Common types include contamination obsessions (fear of germs or dirt), checking behaviours (repeatedly verifying locks or appliances), symmetry and order obsessions (need for precision), and intrusive thoughts (unwanted, distressing ideas). Though the themes differ, they share a cycle of obsession, anxiety, and compulsion that disrupts daily life.

Treatment for OCD typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. 

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which helps individuals face fears and resist compulsive behaviours. 
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce symptoms by balancing brain chemistry. 
• In severe cases, intensive outpatient programs, deep brain stimulation (DBS), or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be considered.

Psychiatrist Who Treats Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

• Obsessions and compulsions cause issues with the serotonin levels in individuals who are affected. SSRIs have been shown to correct the concentration of serotonin in the brain, thus providing them with relief. This is done only after careful analysis by the psychiatrist, where they take symptom severity and patient history into account. It usually takes about 12 weeks for the medications to start taking effect and reduce the symptoms. 
• There are many myths about taking medication for OCD, but it is important to know that the right medication at the correct dosage can improve your quality of life. 

Most importantly, it is the combination of both ways of treatment that has proven to give the best relief for OCD. At Amaha, our team of trained psychiatrists and psychologists with decades of experience and rigorous research work follow a 360-degree approach for our clients. We also have a very active OCD support community where people struggling with OCD come together and share their experiences. Join our community or book a session now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best support for OCD?

The best support for OCD includes professional therapy, psychiatric support, and medication when needed. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are the most effective treatments. 

What will a psychiatrist do for OCD?

A psychiatrist evaluates OCD symptoms, provides a diagnosis, and creates a treatment plan. This may include prescribing medications such as SSRIs, monitoring progress, and coordinating with therapists. They also help manage coexisting mental health issues and ensure the treatment approach is tailored to individual needs. 

How long does OCD recovery take?

OCD recovery varies from person to person. With consistent therapy and medication, many people notice improvement within a few months, but full recovery can take six months to a year or longer. Ongoing management and relapse prevention strategies help maintain long-term progress. 

How to know if OCD is severe?

OCD is considered severe when obsessions and compulsions consume several hours a day and significantly interfere with daily functioning, relationships, or work. If symptoms cause distress or make it difficult to manage basic tasks, professional evaluation and treatment are strongly recommended.