When you’re living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you may struggle to find balance in your everyday routines and within your relationships with others. While traditional treatments like medication and therapy are commonly recommended, not everyone finds them effective. Fortunately, there are some alternative treatments for OCD that may be able to help with your symptoms, especially when other treatments don’t seem to be enough.
Conventional treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder include a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are considered typical treatments for OCD.
ERP gradually exposes individuals to the thoughts, images, or situations that provoke their obsessions while preventing the compulsive behaviors used to manage anxiety. Studies show ERP can significantly lessen the severity of OCD symptoms over time.
Medication is often used in conjunction with CBT with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) serving as the first-line pharmacological treatment for OCD. These medications increase serotonin levels in the brain and can reduce the intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the following SSRIs for OCD:
When used for OCD, SSRIs are prescribed at higher doses. For those who do not respond well to SSRIs, clomipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant, may be an alternative. It works similarly to SSRIs by increasing serotonin levels, but may come with more side effects.
For many people with OCD, conventional treatments may not provide complete relief. Studies show that after standard pharmacological treatment, about 30-60% of patients continue to experience residual symptoms. Because of this, alternative treatments have become popular for those looking to manage symptoms without relying solely on medication. While these options may not be a replacement for traditional therapies, they can be considered supplementary to help reduce symptoms.
Nutritional and herbal supplements have gotten attention for their potential in managing OCD symptoms. While research on their effectiveness is ongoing, some evidence suggests that certain vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies may have some benefits for those struggling with OCD:
Before trying any supplements, consult with a healthcare provider to make sure they are safe to use alongside current medications you may be taking.
Aside from herbal and natural supplements, patients with OCD may consider advanced treatment options such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). These treatments target the brain directly and may come with fewer side effects than medications or supplements.
TMS is a non-invasive treatment option that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions that may contribute to OCD symptoms. It’s FDA approved and could be an alternative for those who have not responded to traditional treatments. Here’s what you need to know about TMS:
Research has shown that the effectiveness of TMS can depend on the brain region being targeted and the specific symptoms that are being addressed. The magnetic pulses can be directed to different areas of the brain, such as:
However, it’s important to note that while some studies show promising results, others have reported mixed or limited benefits due to small study sizes or variations in treatment protocols.
DBS is a surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in specific brain areas to regulate electrical activity and reduce symptoms. These electrodes are connected to a device placed under the skin which sends electrical impulses to help manage OCD symptoms. Here are some things to keep in mind:
While DBS can provide relief for those with severe OCD, it carries higher risks compared to non-invasive treatments.
Incorporating positive lifestyle changes into your daily routine can help reduce symptoms of OCD, improve overall well-being, and enhance the effects of other interventions. These changes are not meant to replace professional treatment but can complement ongoing therapy and medication.
Certain foods contain nutrients that may support brain health and help manage anxiety. Nutrients that have been shown to reduce OCD symptoms include vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, and antioxidants. Here are some dietary tips to consider:
Some foods can worsen anxiety symptoms or trigger compulsive behaviors. It’s best to limit or avoid foods high in sugar which can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to mood swings.
Additionally, exercise can help lower stress levels and improve mood by increasing the production of endorphins. Studies have shown that combining CBT with exercise leads to more significant reductions in OCD symptoms compared to exercise alone or no intervention at all. Activities like yoga, walking, and swimming are some physical activities to consider.
Mindfulness practices like meditation can help those with OCD manage intrusive thoughts and anxiety. Techniques that focus on staying present and calmly observing thoughts without judgment can improve how people respond to obsessive thoughts and compulsive urges.
Research indicates that meditation-based interventions, when used alongside medication, can result in greater improvements in OCD symptoms than medication alone. This was measured using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale which is a tool that is commonly used to assess the severity of OCD. Meditation encourages a mindset shift where thoughts are observed rather than reacted to. This can reduce the power intrusive obsessions hold over a person with OCD.
If you still can’t find relief from your symptoms after trying alternative treatments for OCD, it might be time to consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can work with you to find the right treatment plan. Reach out today to learn more about OCD treatments that may be available to you.
Moving beyond first-line treatment options for OCD – The Mental Health Clinician
Use of Selective Alternative Therapies for Treatment of OCD – Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Trace Minerals and Anxiety: A Review of Zinc, Copper, Iron, and Selenium – Dietetics
Achieving OCD Relief: Consideration of TMS Earlier in the Treatment Continuum – Psychiatric Times
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for OCD – International OCD Foundation
FAQ About Deep Brain Stimulation for OCD – University of California San Francisco
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
