Mental Health: OCD

Introduction

Most of us are familiar with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) but how many of us are aware of how compulsions interfere with daily life? My brother M, has been dealing with the disorder for years and raising awareness of its effects helps us understand what those closest to us are going through.

M explains the first hand experience of OCD

“I began to experience the symptoms of OCD (intrusive thoughts and compulsive ritual neutralization) at the age of 18. My everyday functioning was so drastically impaired, that I was eventually forced to drop out of university.”

The forms of OCD

“Like myself, many OCD sufferers experience many different manifestations of the disorder. When one bout is gotten under control, a new one often follows. The most common subcategories of OCD are contamination, scrupulosity, and hoarding.”

Coping mechanisms

“The most tried and tested remedy for OCD is the combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and the appropriate anxiety-reducing medication. There are alternatives, but they aren’t nearly as effective.”

Summary

 “After about two years of CBT with a fantastic psychotherapist, I was able to get my OCD almost completely under control. The disorder is chronic and must be monitored constantly; but I now possess the knowledge and experience to be able to live a normal life all the same.”

The hope in sharing my brother’s experience is that we all become more familiar with this mental health disorder and ensure we have the right support system for those close to us who may be affected.