Symptomatology
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) presents itself in the form of intrusive thoughts and overt or mental compulsive actions. Intrusive thoughts are ideas, images or impulses that force themselves on the person against their will.
They are almost always experienced as senseless or tormenting and cause considerable suffering: they are time-consuming and impair everyday life, work, social activities and relationships. They are also often coupled with other conditions, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and/or phobias.
Therapeutic approach
Alongside emotion-regulation training, exposure with response prevention is at the core of behavioural-therapy work.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between intrusive thoughts and compulsions?
- Intrusive thoughts are involuntary ideas, images or impulses experienced as senseless or tormenting. Compulsions are observable or mental rituals that briefly reduce tension but reinforce the disorder in the long run.
- Can OCD be treated successfully?
- Behavioural therapy, in particular exposure with response prevention, is the most effective form of treatment. Many people experience a clear reduction in symptoms. Complete symptom freedom is possible but not always the goal.
- What does exposure with response prevention mean?
- You face the triggering stimulus in accompanied steps without performing the usual ritual. Tension rises at first and then subsides on its own. Repeated, this experience leads sustainably to a decoupling of trigger and compulsive action.
- How long does therapy for OCD take?
- Often between 40 and 60 sessions, depending on severity, duration of symptoms and comorbidities such as depression or anxiety disorders. The exact plan is set after diagnostics.
- Should family members be involved in therapy?
- In many cases yes. Family members are often unwittingly drawn into compulsive routines, for example through reassurance-seeking or co-performing rituals. Targeted information and guidance support them in carrying without reinforcing.
