Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can present itself in various ways. You might find yourself stuck in a cycle of intrusive thoughts that cause distress, followed by repetitive behaviours or rituals aimed at reducing that distress. These behaviours can range from checking things repeatedly, needing to count or organize, or feeling the need to avoid certain situations.
Living with OCD can be exhausting, especially when these thoughts and behaviours interfere with daily life. Figuring out where to start when seeking help can also be overwhelming. But help is out there. I help many people manage OCD, so if you’re struggling with compulsive thoughts or behaviours, feel free to book an appointment with me to discuss your experiences.
Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
OCD affects people differently, and understanding its symptoms can be a helpful first step. It’s more than just wanting things to be clean or organized; OCD involves cycles of intrusive thoughts and behaviors that feel difficult to control.
Common signs of OCD include:
- Intrusive thoughts or images that cause distress
- Repetitive behaviors or rituals aimed at reducing distress and anxiety (such as checking, washing, counting)
- A strong urge to perform certain actions to feel "safe" or reduce anxiety
- Feelings of distress or frustration when unable to complete rituals
- Significant impact on daily life due to time-consuming rituals
Finding The Right OCD Treatment
The approach to treating OCD can depend on the causes of your symptoms and what you want to achieve. The main OCD treatment is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a treatment I offer. Sometimes, ERP alone is enough to completely resolve OCD. Other times, treatment requires other therapies.
For example, it is not unusual for people experiencing OCD to have had difficult experiences earlier in life. In this type of case, we’d complete a course of ERP, reducing the OCD symptoms substantially. Then, we do some additional therapy, looking at the early experiences, which reduces the OCD symptoms even further.
It is important to know that most treatments for OCD, specifically ERP, are quite intense but can also be relatively quick. Treatment should be adjusted to your particular circumstances, but putting in 30 minutes to 2 hours a day (because there’s a lot of homework) can offer the fastest and most effective relief of OCD symptoms. In some cases, you could see major changes in 1-3 months. Progress is possible without the homework and with therapy alone, but, ultimately, this may cost you more time, more money, and prolong your suffering.
Treatment Options Based On OCD Severity
Unfortunately, OCD is often a condition that is difficult to make big inroads into without some professional support early on in the process.
The first step is seeing your GP who, depending on your circumstances, should refer you to a psychologist and/or a psychiatrist. If you have mild OCD a psychologist alone is likely to be helpful. If you are on the moderate to severe end, then a psychiatrist is often very helpful or even essential.
If you and your health professionals determine that you have a more severe form of OCD then I would start researching and planning for an inpatient OCD program (see the section on inpatient programs below). It is helpful to start planning this early because the appropriate private health cover can drastically reduce the cost of this and there can be a wait time. Doing an inpatient program when the OCD is severe can be a great way to get off on the right foot.
Treatment Options For Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
I am a big believer in people educating themselves as much as possible about OCD. There are many resources and services that can support you, some of which I’ve included below. Remember that it might take some time to find the approach that works best for you. I am also not endorsing these resources but providing options to help you get started.
Professional OCD Treatments
Seeing a General Practitioner (GP)
Seeing your GP is usually the best place to start. A GP will assess your symptoms and refer you to treatment under a Mental Health Treatment Plan (allowing you to claim rebates for psychological services). Your GP can also discuss whether medication may be beneficial and refer you to an inpatient program at a private hospital.
Seeing a Psychologist
Psychologists are the main providers of ERP, one of the most vital OCD treatments. Psychologists can also help you work through other mental health difficulties that might be exacerbating or even causing the OCD.
Seeing a Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists, as medical doctors, can prescribe medications to help with OCD. Some also offer psychological therapies, and in severe cases, they can refer you for additional treatments or inpatient programs.
Programs at Private Hospitals
Programs at Private Hospitals can be incredibly helpful if you have severe OCD or are finding that doing therapy with your psychologist is not working. Some private hospitals in Melbourne offer treatment programs for OCD:
- The Melbourne Clinic
- St Vincent’s Private Hospital
Self-Help and Community-Based Treatments for OCD
Beyond Blue Support Service
Beyond Blue offers free, 24/7 counselling for people experiencing depression, anxiety, or mental health challenges. Their counsellors can provide advice, emotional support, and practical strategies to manage low mood.
MensLine Australia
Kids Helpline
Community Health Services
Some local councils offer low-cost or free mental health programs, including for OCD. Check your city council’s health service offerings.
Self-Help Resources For Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
You might find that certain books or online tools resonate more with you than others.
OCD Books
I also usually give people some readings from Exposure Therapy for Anxiety – Principles and Practice (Second Edition) by Jonathan Abramowitz, Brett Deacon, and Stephen Whiteside.
When I work with people we usually work through Treating Your OCD with Exposure and Response (Ritual) Prevention Therapy – Workbook by Elna Yadin, Edna Foa and Tracey Lichner.
Online Resources For OCD
- Mindfulness Apps: It can also be very helpful to start learning Mindfulness. Smiling Mind can be a place to start for this.
- OCD Stop!: Swinburne University’s National eTherapy Centre (NeTC) (funded by Australia’s Federal Department of Health) offers an online OCD program.
Are you looking for help managing your Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? Let’s talk.
Fax:
(03) 7020 2738
Locations and Hours:
R2R Health In Moonee Ponds:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 9 AM to 6:20 PM