OCD: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and/or behaviors (compulsions) that they feel the urge to repeat over and over.
OCD affects up to 3% of people worldwide. A childhood onset form can start around 10 years of age, more commonly in boys than girls. Most of the remainder of people with OCD have their first symptoms before they turn 25, with women outnumbering men. OCD symptoms don’t usually develop after age 30.
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Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person with OCD feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought. Common compulsions include:
Antidepressants are shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. At Brightside, we use data and research to find the right medication for you.
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We use evidence-based therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is proven to be effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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A comprehensive approach to care leads to better outcomes. By practicing daily healthy habits and self-care, you can reduce your symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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Whether you choose medication, therapy, or both, our memberships include expert online care designed to help you feel better, faster.
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Start by answering a clinically-proven set of questions, which will help us understand your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan with Medication, Therapy, or both.
Within 48 hours, you’ll have a video consultation where you can share how you’re feeling and decide on next steps together.
Unlimited messaging, video sessions, and regular check-ins help you stay in touch with your provider so they can monitor your symptoms and adjust until treatment is right for you.
“A literal life saver. So convenient, so effective, and more involved/high touch than my former psychiatrist was. I should have done this a year sooner.”
“Brightside has made such a huge improvement on my quality of life. The ease of access, the convenience of the med delivery, and the intelligent check in scoring system all contribute to a next level quality of care.”
“My provider has answered every question I’ve had, listened to worries and concerns and symptoms, assured me and is truly invested in my quality of care. I’ve gone from moderate-severe depression to mild depression in just 2 months.”
“I am so very grateful to have found Brightside. This is the most hopeful I have felt in maybe two years. Brightside isn't just working for me, it saved me. Brightside really turned may life around.”
“My life is so much better after starting with Brightside. My doctor truly cares about my well being and I’m just so grateful for this.”
“A literal life saver. So convenient, so effective, and more involved/high touch than my former psychiatrist was. I should have done this a year sooner.”
“Brightside has made such a huge improvement on my quality of life. The ease of access, the convenience of the med delivery, and the intelligent check in scoring system all contribute to a next level quality of care.”
“My provider has answered every question I’ve had, listened to worries and concerns and symptoms, assured me and is truly invested in my quality of care. I’ve gone from moderate-severe depression to mild depression in just 2 months.”
“I am so very grateful to have found Brightside. This is the most hopeful I have felt in maybe two years. Brightside isn't just working for me, it saved me. Brightside really turned may life around.”
“My life is so much better after starting with Brightside. My doctor truly cares about my well being and I’m just so grateful for this.”
A mental health provider will diagnose OCD by asking you about the following three things:
The causes of OCD are unknown, but risk factors include:
Genetics
Twin and family studies have shown that people who have a parent, sibling, or child with OCD are at a higher risk for developing OCD themselves. The risk is higher if the first-degree relative developed OCD as a child or teen.
Brain structure
Brain imaging studies have shown differences in the frontal cortex and subcortical structures in patients with OCD. There appears to be a connection between the OCD symptoms and abnormalities in certain areas of the brain, but more research is needed to determine the specific connection.
Environment
An association between childhood trauma and OCD symptoms has been reported in some studies. However, more research is needed to understand this relationship better.
If you are experiencing obsessive thoughts and/or compulsive behaviors that are affecting your life, it may be time to seek professional help. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and figure out a plan together.
OCD can be treated using a combination of medication and a few different therapy approaches.
Medication
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are used to help reduce OCD symptoms.
SRIs often require higher daily doses in the treatment of OCD than of depression and may take 8–12 weeks to start working. However, some patients do experience more rapid improvement.
Therapy
Certain types of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other related therapies (e.g. habit reversal training), can be as effective as medication for many people living with OCD.
Research also shows that a type of CBT called Exposure and Response Prevention (EX/RP) may also be helpful. EX/RP consists of spending time in the very situation that triggers the compulsions, such as touching a dirty object. Then, you won’t be allowed to complete the usual compulsion, such as handwashing. This type of CBT is effective in reducing compulsive behaviors in OCD, even in people who did not respond well to SRIs.
Self-Care, Coping, and Support
Many treatment plans for OCD involve aspects of self-care. This can include:
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Build the skills needed to overcome anxiety and depression with an evidence-based approach to therapy that is proven to work.
Track your progress at every step, so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
If you’re in emotional distress, text HOME to connect with a counselor immediately.
Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for 24/7 emotional support.
If you’re having a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to your local ER.
