How to Care for a Loved One with OCD

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the most common of the neurotic disorders. Around 2 percent of the people in the world suffer from it. OCD is frustrating for both the patient and loved ones because of the mental disconnect between the sufferer and those around him who can't understand certain behaviors.

Instructions

Know How to Care for a Loved One with OCD

• 1

  Be understanding. Your loved one with OCD knows that the compulsive rituals she performs are not rational. However, she likely feels powerless to stop herself. Being harsh or impatient with her regarding these rituals will only upset your loved one and increase her frustration.

• 2

  Avoid trying to stop OCD rituals. A loved one with OCD performs his compulsive rituals in order to alleviate anxiety from obsessions. If you attempt to make him stop, it could cause extreme emotional distress.

• 3

  Encourage your loved one to see a therapist for mental care. Psychologists who perform talk therapy are particularly useful to a patient with OCD. This form of therapy has been shown to improve OCD symptoms in a number of studies.

• 4

  Take your loved one to see a psychiatrist for appropriate medication. OCD can often be treated this way. A psychiatrist will be up to date on current medications for OCD and can prescribe what is best.

• 5

  Provide encouragement. Getting over OCD is tough and your loved one may experience setbacks along the way. Be her cheering squad and let her know you believe she can do it.