1. Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Find the answers to your most frequently asked questions about OCD.

What is Acceptance and Committment Therapy?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is relatively new psychological treatment that has shown promise in the treatment of anxiety disorders including OCD. ACT’s central philosophy is that anxiety is part of life and that it is our to the experience of anxiety that can be the real problem.

How Can I Take Part in OCD Clinical Trials?
There are a number of reasons why people with OCD consider taking part in a clinical research trial. Read more to find out how to participate in OCD clinical research and what to know before you sign up.

What Should I look for in a Therapist?
Not surprisingly, study after study has confirmed that the better the relationship between you and your therapist, the more you’ll benefit from therapy for OCD. Read more about the skills and qualities your therapist should possess.

Where do I get Help for OCD?
Find out where to get the medical and psychological help you need to treat OCD.

How Is OCD Diagnosed?
Unlike many diseases, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, mental illnesses, such as OCD, can’t be diagnosed using a blood test, biopsy, x-ray or physical examination. Health professionals, such as family doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists, rely on clinical experience and extensive training to determine whether someone meets diagnostic criteria for OCD. Find out how OCD is diagnosed.

What Are Common Obsessive Behaviors
obsessive behaviors ocd ocd symptoms

What are Common OCD Thoughts?
A core OCD symptom is obsessions which are unwanted, distressing and uncontrollable thoughts that are often of a disturbing nature. Common OCD thoughts include obsessions related to a variety of themes.

How can I Stop OCD Thoughts?
OCD Thoughts - How Can I Stop OCD Thoughts

Am I Ready for Behavioral Therapy for OCD?
Behavioral Therapy for OCD – Am I Ready for Behavioral Therapy for OCD

How long does it take OCD therapy to work?
People undergoing OCD therapy may wonder how long it takes before it "works." There are many variables that can affect this outcome.

Can people with OCD live normal and productive lives?
If you have OCD, you may feel like your life will never be "normal." Learn how you can lead a productive life with OCD.

Does psychotherapy for OCD have side effects?
While psychotherapy is very effective for reducing OCD symptoms, many people feel as though they experience side effects from treatment. Is this true?

Can I diagnose myself with OCD?
Many people may feel that they are "so OCD." But can you actually diagnose yourself with this mental health condition?

Does having sexual and aggressive obsessions mean I want these things to happen?
Some people with OCD may worry that experiencing sexual or aggressive obsessions means that they actually want these things to happen.

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