How to Help Someone with OCD
When you know of someone or live with someone who has OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), you may occasionally feel upset and powerless, like there is nothing you can do to alleviate their suffering.
However, you can help, and your compassion and encouragement will help them get better. Let’s take a closer look at how to help someone with OCD.
1. Be Honest
It could be challenging for the person to discuss their compulsions and obsessions. They might well have held it a secret for some time and are anxious about how you will react.
Recognising this and encouraging them to discuss the story in a manner that feels natural to them can be helpful. Even if their anxieties appear unfounded, unreasonable, or exaggerated to you, remember that they are genuine to them, so be tolerant.
Being impartial even when hearing about someone else’s obsessive thoughts might be unpleasant; if you react with surprise or judgment, they will be less likely to open up to you about their feelings in the future. Make it known that you support and adore them despite everything.
2. Figure Out Ways to Handle Compulsions Together
Trying to figure out how to deal with a person’s compulsions is among the most challenging aspects of dealing with someone with OCD. You might end up assisting them. This is also referred to as accommodation. For instance:
- Providing reassurance regarding their obsessive thoughts and actions while assisting them in their compulsive behaviours.
- Refusing to assist someone can worsen their anxieties and make matters more challenging for you both. However, helping someone overcome their compulsions is typically ineffective over the long run. Every time a person engages in a compulsion (including seeking consolation), it solidifies that this is the only method to manage their discomfort.
People receiving OCD treatment are guided in understanding that, even if compulsions are not carried out, anxiety will naturally decrease.
3. Encourage Them to Seek out Treatment
It could be challenging for the person to discuss their OCD and try to get help from their doctor. The following are a few ways you can assist them:
- Assure them that the consultation is private and that their GP’s role is to facilitate their access to care. Making the offer to accompany them might also make things simpler. For example, you may learn more about encouraging someone to ask for assistance here.
- The OCD treatment process might be complicated in some areas. For example, they can get irritated, worn out, nervous, or sad during treatment. Enquire with them about what you can do to help during this trying moment.
Final Thoughts
Keep in mind that people with OCD can improve with therapy, and your support can significantly impact their healing.
Access CBT is a Liverpool-based organisation providing online treatment and OCD therapy services worldwide. We assist people who are dealing with a variety of physical and mental health issues. In addition, we provide expert advice and assistance to enhance mental health for both immediate needs and long-term support.
OCD & CBT
Cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective treatment for OCD disorders. This type of therapy teaches you how to modify the negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to your condition. It also helps you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Access CBT offer CBT treatment for all types of depressive and anxiety disorder issues with in-person depression CBT Counselling in Liverpool or Online Support
The NHS UK also offers a number of support groups and advice for those suffering from OCD disorders
