Quote:
Originally Posted by pacman_789
Laurie, you have a point about the dx not being as important as the cure. However, I do think the OCD diagnosis is important in this case since there is a very specific therapy called ERP that is proven to be successful in treating the disorder, which would differ from how bipolar is treated. Also, many people with OCD need an SSRI in addition to the therapy depending on the severity. Of course, this can cause problems for those with bipolar, but you can overcome that by adding a mood stabilizer.
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Sure, that's why dx can be helpful - to give a focus to treatment. And, too, dx can be frustrating when there is a known treatment that is not available to everyone. For example, I live in a town in which I am extremely fortunate to fine a therapist at all. There is absolutely no chance for me to receive ERP. Also, health insurance is a huge issue for many.
Medication, yes, fortunately it is available to almost everyone except those souls living in third world countries. But, I have never heard of anyone to this moment who has experienced more than very slight relief from OCD symptoms from an SSRI.
I really don't know...sometimes a dx seems important to me; other times it just causes enormous confusion and adds stress. That's why I have come to the conclusion that treating the symptoms is of more value than treating a specific disorder - because there are so many times when disorders overlap...it can get crazy, in itself.
There is also the stupidness about having to have a specific dx for insurance purposes. UGH. How ridiculous is that!