Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Hello everybody! Today I want to talk about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. My friend Deniz and I presented this topic in class. Firstly, I start with the definition of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder(OCD).
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is an anxiety disorder. It is described by a disabling condition throughout a person’s life. There are several symptoms of this disease such as repetitive hand-washing; extensive hoarding; preoccupation with sexual or aggressive impulses, or with particular religious beliefs; aversion to odd numbers.
I explain the treatment methods of OCD. Generally, there are 2 main therapy for OCD patients. Pharmacotherapy and behavior theraphy. One patient may benefit from behavior therapy, while another will benefit from pharmacotherapy. Medications are of help in controlling the symptoms of OCD. If the medication is discontinued, relapse will follow. On the other hand, a specific behavior therapy approach called 'exposure and response prevention' is effective for many people with OCD. For example; a compulsive hand washer may be encouraged to touch an object believed to be contaminated, and then urged to avoid washing for several hours until the anxiety provoked has greatly decreased.

HOW TO GET HELP FOR OCD?
. You should seek the help of a mental health professional.
. You can get help from family physicians, clinics and health organizations or they can make referrals to mental health centers and specialists.
. The specialists who are knowledgeable about the treatment of OCD are able to provide therapy or recommend another doctor in the area.

Well, if there is a person with OCD, what the family can do to help for him?
. They may learn specific ways to encourage the person with OCD to adherefully to behavior therapy and/or pharmacotherapy programs.
. They may read self-help books.
. They may seek the help of a family therapist.

Life is not long enough to put everything into your head. I wish you have a good time without obsessions=)