Is There a Cure for OCD?

Posted by throwawayhnn on Wednesday February 16, 2022 @11:22AM
from the self-post dept.

I have been suffering from contamination OCD for last 7 years. After it became very severe I got admitted to a rehab. I have been taking medication and ERP therapy for last more than a year. Although my compulsions have come down a lot after undergoing intense ERP, the underlying fear never really got treated and I still don't quite enjoy life as a normal person. I have hesitation in doing simplest of things and often indulge in avoidance behaviours. I would be grateful if some of you can share some advice or experiences.

( 4 comments | 4 points | on HN )

Re:Is There a Cure for OCD? by cosheaf on Wednesday February 16, 2022 @11:28AM (#30362038)

There is no royal road to changing one's mental behaviors and habits. It's a metacognitive skill and can be developed like any other skill but you'll have to put in the work to develop it. Start by developing an exercise routine that you can stick to, preferably cardio. Then make sure your diet is not full of junk calories. If you manage those two then you'll be on your way to developing higher level cognitive skills and might resolve whatever issues you have with your OCD.

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Re:Is There a Cure for OCD? by kendallgclark on Wednesday February 16, 2022 @11:35AM (#30362124)

Some drugs help support exposures therapy (a kind of CBT) to be able to manage OCD on a daily basis. It's not really curable per se, but totally manageable.

If you can, find a good CBT therapist who specializes in OCD. Makes a huge difference to have expert help.

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Re:Is There a Cure for OCD? by helph67 on Wednesday February 16, 2022 @04:01PM (#30365620)

You may find that the Mediterranean diet could improve your situation. People who follow it tend to live long, healthy lives. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190218-how-the-bacteria...

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Re:Is There a Cure for OCD? by DoreenMichele on Wednesday February 16, 2022 @04:02PM (#30365635)

Work on your nutritional status and check for hidden mold in your home. Anecdotally, I've seen that help.

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