OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, can be a challenging condition to live with, not only for those diagnosed with this debilitating mental illness but also for their loved ones. If you have a friend or family member with OCD, you may feel helpless and unsure of how to help them manage their symptoms.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to support your loved one and help them live a more fulfilling life despite their diagnosis.
What is OCD?
OCD is a mental health disorder that affects an estimated 2.5 million US adults every year. It is characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that are difficult to control and can severely impair daily life.
This condition causes people to experience recurring, intrusive thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause severe anxiety and distress, known as obsessions. To counteract the psychological distress caused by obsessions, these individuals may feel driven to engage in repetitive/ritualistic behaviors or mental acts, known as compulsions.
For instance, a person with OCD may have an obsessive fear of contamination, leading them to compulsively wash their hands frequently throughout the day. Although these compulsions may provide temporary reprieve, they can also reinforce the negative thought patterns in the long run – creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break.
How To Support a Someone with OCD
1. Learn About OCD
The first step in helping someone with OCD is to educate yourself about the disorder. OCD is a complex mental illness that is often mistaken as being quirky. Understanding the nature of OCD and the challenges your loved one faces on a daily basis is key to providing effective and informed support.
2. Be Patient
Patience is a vital ingredient in supporting someone with OCD. Remember that recovery is a gradual process, and setbacks are part of it. Avoid putting pressure on your loved one to get better quickly. Instead, encourage them to take small, manageable steps and celebrate their progress.
3. Give Support without Reinforcing OCD Behaviors
It’s essential to provide support without inadvertently reinforcing the person’s OCD behaviors. For example, repeatedly reassuring someone with OCD that their hands are clean may feed into their compulsions, making it harder for them to break the cycle. Instead, encourage them to confront their fears and resist the urge to perform their compulsions.
4. Adjust Your Expectations
OCD is a complex condition that can be difficult to manage, even with professional medical intervention. As a result, it’s important to adjust your expectations accordingly. Keep in mind that OCD is an intrusive mental illness that can take over a person’s life and make it difficult to focus on other aspects of life. Acknowledge their efforts, even if they are not meeting your expectations.
5. Avoid Comparisons and Recognize Improvements
Comparing your loved one’s progress to others can be detrimental to their recovery. Instead, focus on their individual journey and acknowledge even the smallest improvements. Celebrating their progress, no matter how small, can help build their confidence and motivate them to continue working toward recovery.
6. Offer to Help Them Find Treatment
Although family and friends can provide invaluable support for someone with OCD, professional help is necessary for successful treatment. OCD is a complex mental illness that requires specialized interventions. Offer to help your loved one find a mental health provider who specializes in treating OCD and encourage them to follow through with the recommended course of treatment.
The Takeaway
Supporting someone with OCD can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. The above tips are just some steps you can take to express your support and make a meaningful difference in your loved one’s life. Remember, your compassion, understanding, and encouragement are vital in their journey toward better mental health.
