Medicine

[OCDHELP2011]

Hey guys I am new to this page and have been battling harm OCD for years. My question is I am on a few different medications and have never had one help me. Should I just work with my doctor and come off the meds or just keep trying more and more meds?

[Selesnya]

Have you been doing therapy as well? Have you specifically tried ERP to fight back against the OCD?

I think that most of us on the forum here are on some form of medication and have found it helpful, but not just on its own. There are a few people where taking medication seems to be enough, but for most everyone else that I've heard from that is dealing well with OCD, the substantial gains come from therapy and not the medication.

[Catbro in reply to Selesnya]

I choose not to take medication, I practice CBT, ERP, ACT and meditation . ERP with my therapist was a game changer. We also used “Getting over OCD” a 10 step workbook for taking back your life.

[NWOntario]

Unfortunately, there's no scientific answer to the medication question; it's an issue you'll want to discuss with a doctor, preferably a psychiatrist. Medication can certainly help alleviate OCD symptoms. I was on medication for 11 years, and while it wasn't a comprehensive treatment (or even a primary one) it helped me get better. Having said that, ERP was far more important to my recovery, and lifestyle changes (notably sleep hygiene and a new job in which I no longer travel) have kept me better. I was able to wean off medication as a result. I think it's important to note that I don't have depression or any other comorbidities.

[Fearnomore]

I’ve been on medication for 23 years. Without it my OCD becomes debilitating and I suffer greatly. Have you ever tried Luvox? The dosage needs to be higher for OCD patients. Also, recovery takes time. It took me 6 months to see good relief. Of course exposure and response helps too. Best of luck and may God be with you!

[alyssuh]

I’m currently taking luvox but i know meds won’t be 100% without therapy as well