![]() In the 19th century, OCD was known as the “doubting disease.” OCD can make a sufferer doubt even the most basic things about themselves, others, or the world they live in. Unless you understand these, you cannot understand OCD. While it is not understood why this is so, these are considered hallmarks of the disorder. Two of the main features of OCD are doubt and guilt This means that if you don’t use the tools provided in cognitive behavioral therapy or if you stop taking your medication (in most cases) you will soon find yourself hemmed in by symptoms once again. The things you will have to do to treat it really control, and if you don’t learn to effectively make use of them throughout your life, you will run the risk of relapse. The current thinking is that it is probably genetic in origin, and not within our current reach to treat at that level. It is a potential that will always be there in the background, even if it is no longer affecting your life. You can get it under control and become recovered but, at the present time, there is no cure. This means it is like having asthma or diabetes. ![]() It is important to discriminate between the two, so as to not end up misdirecting your efforts. There are some things you will be able to change, and some you will have to accept. The concepts of change and acceptance go hand-in-hand and define each other. However, if you wish to change, you will need to accept them. You may not like some of the things on this list, as they may not be what you wish to hear. Some of these points may seem obvious, but it has always struck me as remarkable how little of this information my new patients, who are otherwise intelligent and informed people, are seen to possess coming into therapy. Putting together this type of list always seems arbitrary in terms of what to include, but suffice it to say, however, it is presented, there is a certain body of information that can make anyone’s attempts at recovery more effective. ![]() During that time, I have come to many valuable understandings that I believe are important tools for anyone planning to take on this disorder. I have been actively involved in the treatment of OCD since 1982 and have treated over 850 cases of the disorder. (Executive director of Western Suffolk Psychological Services in Huntington, Long Island, New York)
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |