Obsessive states are characterized by the involuntary emergence of negative thoughts, memories, fears, etc. They can be observed in quite healthy people. You can play a familiar melody in your head or think about a past or forthcoming event. This is normal. Such thoughts pass by themselves. If obsessive states become permanent and cause excruciating experiences or anxiety, then immediate treatment is required.
Instructions
Step 1
Obsessive-compulsive disorders are treated in three ways: drug therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Medication is prescribed by a doctor. In most cases, drug therapy leads to a significant improvement in the patient's well-being and to a significant decrease in obsessions. Drug therapy helps in 55-65% of cases. With drug treatment, side effects are possible. However, well-planned treatment minimizes possible risks.
Step 2
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy fixes the problem without medication. This treatment teaches the patient to think and behave correctly during an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive states are aggravated by the patient's desire to minimize the discomfort from obsessive thoughts by performing certain actions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy forces the patient to deliberately refuse to perform the usual actions. As a result, obsessive states in patients disappear completely. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective and preferred treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, but it is more complex. This therapy requires the patient to perform serious psychotherapeutic procedures. Not everyone is ready to endure such a test. Therefore, the effectiveness of this method is 75-85%.
Step 3
There are neglected cases when an integrated approach to the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorders is needed. And then combined treatment is prescribed - medication and non-medication. Research has shown that CBT is more effective without medication. However, if the patient seeks help too late, medication is indispensable. Therefore, the earlier the treatment begins, the faster and more successful the recovery will be.
