OCD and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy - Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD

Written by HealthyPlace.com Staff Writer

Dan3: Are there any foods, for example fruits, that help treat OCD?

Dr. Gallo: While it is very important to pay attention to what I call the basics of good health" (e.g., proper nutrition, sleep, exercise and recreation) there is no substantive evidence that any particular foods have a therapeutic effect on OCD. I cannot, though, over-emphasize attention to the important basics.

pinky444: I was wondering if I have OCD. I think I show signs of it, but I'm not sure. I obsess over people I know, and I, in a sense "stalk them". Could I have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

Dr. Gallo: While it is not possible, or ethical, for me to attempt to make a diagnosis over the internet (without a thorough personal evaluation) this does not, at first glance, seem like classic OCD. This type of "obsessive" thinking and "compulsive" behavior falls into a different category of problems.

David: I'm sure Dr. Gallo would agree, if you believe you have a problem or psychological issue, it would be important to see a psychologist to be evaluated.

Dr. Gallo: Absolutely. All of my answers are meant to inform. If you are experiencing significant problems or distress in your life, please do consult with a professional psychologist or psychiatrist.

annie1973: I am in CBT, as well as on OCD medications. They are both working well for me. Skin picking, I am told, is part of my OCD. This, I cannot seem to control, even though my other symptoms are getting better. My therapist says it will get easier when I start applying my tools more often, but I try to and they are of no help. Any suggestion?

Dr. Gallo: You might ask you therapist to research the technique called habit reversal. It also works for skin picking.

obiwan27: Could helping somebody out with their OCD, actually make my OCD worse?

Dr. Gallo: By trying to "help" a person engage in their rituals, you can actually reinforce the obsessive-compulsive problem. The best way to help someone with OCD is to remind them that what they are experiencing is truly OCD and that they should practice the CBT techniques that their therapist has taught them. Above all, resist enabling the person or you will only make things worse (despite your pure intentions).

4mylyfe: Dr. Gallo, I am wondering how the patient and doctor can best identify the irrational thoughts and fears which come into play in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? Also, how long does CBT generally need to last?

Dr. Gallo: It is essential that a person see a doctor who is VERY experienced in OCD, otherwise they will miss many of the more subtle obsessive cues. Many people are misdiagnosed for years.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy essentially lasts a life time, but the actual time with the therapist can be relatively brief. Ten to fifteen sessions can work wonders, if the person diligently practices the techniques in their everyday life. However, the patient in essence becomes his/her own therapist and continues to utilize CBT throughout their lives. OCD is an illness which can be effectively managed if a person practices what they learn in therapy throughout their life.

pstet55: Is working with obsessive thoughts tougher than say, just having compulsions. I'm talking about disturbing, tormenting thoughts.

Dr. Gallo: Yes, I am afraid it does tend to be harder. However, a skilled cognitive therapist can help you learn how to rationally challenge and restructure these thoughts.

samantha3245: Do they try this treatment on young children? I'm 11 years old.

Dr. Gallo: Oh yes, Samantha! Young children are capable of a lot more than we give them credit for. However, the child must be motivated to work with the therapist. Sometimes parents can get involved also, and help the child with his/her therapy exercises. As an 11 year old, you can definitely benefit from CBT! Go for it and start living a happier life!

We B 100: I feel so frustrated because I have to color code everything and alphabetize everything. Just to do my homework I have to use 4 different colors of ink (pink, purple, blue, green). I feel like such a weirdo and hate this feeling of craziness. Is there anything that I can do at home to stop this without uprooting my whole life?

Dr. Gallo: First and foremost, a person with OCD is not crazy or weird. The very fact that you recognize the irrationality of your actions shows how lucid and sane you actually are. I would suggest seeking a skilled CBT therapist in your area. There are two very fine organizations which can help you locate someone. Anxiety Disorders Association of America and the Obsessive Compulsive Foundation.

MeKaren: I used to be a checker, but over the years my compulsions have changed. I'd have to resist this ridiculous thing I do of always taking 3 steps before doing anything. It is quite time consuming and frustrating. What can I do?

Dr. Gallo: While it is hard for me to give specific individual therapeutic advice, you can try resisting the impulse to do so, tolerate the anxiety until it hits a peak, starts to plateau and then eventually declines. Also, there is an excellent guide by Dr Edna Foa on CBT for OCD that you can read to get you started if you cannot find a good therapist.