Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder

Unfortunately, there is no cure for OCD. However, there are several types of treatments which can provide some relief to the patient.

Medications

The most effective medications are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine (Prozac®), paroxetine (Paxil®), sertraline (Zoloft®), and fluvoxamine (Luvox®); and tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine (Anafranil®). These medications help decrease the frequency and intensity of the obsessions and compulsions. It usually takes three or more weeks for the effects to take place and the patient will have to continue taking the medication indefinitely. 

Cognitive behavior therapy

This form of psychological treatment involves retraining patient’s thought patterns and routines so that compulsive behaviors are no longer present and what is more important, no longer necessary. It involves gradually exposing the patient to a feared object or obsession. It is also teaching the patient different ways to deal with these objects, rather than performing anxiety-reducing ritual or compulsion. Most people with obsessive-compulsive disorder show very good improvement of signs and symptoms with cognitive behavior therapy. It may be especially helpful for children and adolescents. However, cognitive behavior therapy isn't suitable for everyone. About one in four people with obsessive-compulsive disorder refuses this treatment because it can be difficult.

Other Treatment

Electroconvulsive therapy

It is sometimes helpful in individuals with severe primary depression and secondary obsessions.

Natural alternatives

There are natural alternatives to the psychiatric drugs which can help balance serotonin levels and therefore reduce or eliminate the symptoms of OCD.
One of the most famous natural alternatives is MindSoothe, a combination of St John's Wort and Passiflora, two highly effective herbs in therapeutic medicinal dosage. MindSoothe contains two potent remedies in one treatment and offers immediate and long term relief to people suffering from depression, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, OCD and even those with eating disorders.

Hypericum Perforatum (St. John's Wort)

This herb has been scientifically shown to relieve the symptoms of depression if used regularly over a period of 3 - 5 weeks. Because of this, St John's Wort is often called natural Prozac and is widely used as the anti-depressant of choice. There have been many clinical studies which showed the effectiveness of St. John's Wort in the treatment of depression.

Passiflora

This is a calming herb that reduces anxiety and soothes nerves. Passiflora is one of nature's best tranquilizers. It works quickly and effectively and is an excellent addition to any treatment for anxiety and depression.

Bottom Line for curing OCD

Medication may be combined with psychotherapy, and for many people this is the best approach to treatment. Recurrences can be treated as effectively as the initial episode. In fact, the skills you learned in dealing with the initial episode can be helpful in coping with a setback.

Tips for the patients

• Encourage active diversionary activities, such as whistling or humming a tune, to divert attention from the unwanted thoughts and to promote a pleasurable experience.
• Cultivate more effective coping skills by setting limits on unacceptable behavior
• Allow the flow of positive energy into you body and mind.
• Silence your unwanted thoughts.
• Switch your thinking patterns.
• Identify insight and improved behavior   
• Identify disturbing topics of conversation that reflect underlying anxiety or terror.
• Take your medications and follow the correct schedule and dose.
• Follow your therapy schedule and try to not to skip the sessions.
• Involve your family and provide them with materials that explain obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Learn as much as you can about your disorder.
• OCD is not a mental disease. It is a behavioral disorder. Every single person has a minor form of OCD. Everyone obsesses about something and has their own rituals to tranquilize the obsession.  
• Self-help groups can provide help, support and encouragement.