[lovewitheverything]

I am just about to begin CBT therapy next week for my contamination OCD...I was told it is curable but also see many people posting that they still struggle with OCD even after CBT therapy and meds (I am on Zoloft 100mg, although I want to wean myself off of it because after 4 months, it's really not helping my OCD at all). Why do some people get better and others don't? Would love to hear your opinions. Thank you!!!

[MoxieDoxie]

Maybe some of these interviews will help you with. She is doing an entire series on the topic of OCD. Check it out!
Safe Space Radio - Radio Podcasting with Dr. Anne

[HazelGirl]

If Zoloft isn't working, maybe a different med will help. Sometimes it takes a while to find the right one.

[The_little_didgee]

I have contamination fears too. I'm not sure if I have OCD but medication has really helped me. I've tried 5 different ones. Effexor worked the best out of all of them but I had to stop it because I couldn't cope with the side effects. Now, I am on Cipralex. It helps but it hasn't completely eliminated my fears. Worry and excessive handwashing no longer rule my life. Before I couldn't eat out, give and receive kisses and go near people who were sick. I still have trouble with touching door knobs and taps, though. Maybe you can try another medication. Just be prepared that it probably won't eliminate all the behaviors and thoughts.

I cannot comment on CBT since I never did the therapy. Perhaps CBT and medication will give better results than either treatment alone.

[ChipperMonkey]

I have horrible obsessions but they don't rise to the level of OCD because I don't fit the time parameters. I can say without a doubt that my obsessions are somehow linked to a chemical imbalance in my brain as a small dose of meds is enough to get me back on track and then I don't need the meds for possibly months to a year later. Inevitably they do return at some point. I have done CBT and yes, it has helped with my thoughts. I guess I should mention that my main disorder is PTSD and the obsessions just exacerbate those symptoms. But yes, CBT has helped me reign in my thoughts so to speak. If you're like me and your obsessions are linked to a chemical imbalance, then I don't think all the CBT in the world is going to be enough to cure you. That would be akin to trying to think away cancer or diabetes.

[ombrétwilight]

I have OCD too but my T does talk therapy and focuses more on my bipolar. I have however heard of success cases where people with anxiety disorders manage to control their symptoms so as to lead a fruitful life. Therapy is a very personal thing so I guess it really depends on a confluence of factors like the fit between T and client and other existing MI. Ultimately, it all boils down to how the individual reacts and some people may need the help of medication to supplement their progress.

[Partless]

lovewitheverything, another fellow OCD sufferer here.

Based on research, CBT is the most effective psychotherapy available for OCD. SSRI meds also help.

Having said that, OCD is probably the mother of all anxiety disorders, it's tough to treat! The focus is management, not getting rid of the SOB, which sticks to you like leech!