OCD Treatment

If OCD is ranked as the second most prevalent psychiatric disorder, why is it not diagnosed more often?  It is probably because people often try to disguise their symptoms due to the shame or embarrassment associated with the disorder.  They will not reveal their obsessive-compulsive symptoms unless asked about them directly.

It is important that you consult your doctor to discuss your symptoms because there are a number of effective treatment options for OCD. Your doctor will be able to suggest a treatment plan that best suits you. 

Amongst the most commonly used forms of treatment used to alleviate the symptoms of OCD are:

• SSRI's
• CBT and exposure therapy
• Benzodiazepines
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Alternative drug treatments eg antipsychotics
• Physical treatments including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

There is some evidence to suggest that a combination of medication and psychotherapy are move effective that either treatment on its own.

The treatments section will give you more detailed information on individual types of medication, psychotherapy and physical treatments.