Clinical research takes time. Although researchers work tirelessly to learn more about certain physical or mental health conditions, it can be decades before any promising new treatment developments emerge. But then when a breakthrough occurs, several possibilities for treatment may emerge at once. Today, we’re seeing exciting new research and experimental OCD treatment that may just change the way we understand and treat OCD forever.
What is OCD?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by:
- Unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that are accompanied by intensely uncomfortable feelings (obsessions)
- Repeated ritualistic behaviors or thoughts intended to counteract or eliminate the discomfort created by the obsessions (compulsions)
The cycle of obsessions and compulsions differ from person to person, but examples include:
- Disturbing thoughts of contamination followed by excessive hand washing
- Obsessive fear of burglary followed by repeated checking and rechecking of the locks
There are any number of combinations of obsessions and compulsions, and everyone experiences some level of worry or intrusive thoughts at some point. But people with an OCD diagnosis are those whose obsessions and compulsions become time-consuming and interfere with their daily functioning and participation in the activities they enjoy.
What is the best treatment for OCD?
OCD treatment often involves a combination of medication and some type of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The most effective type of CBT involves exposing the patient to the obsession or trigger, and then helping them learn to deliberately delay their response, and control the compulsive behavior. This is known as Exposure and Ritual Prevention (ERP) therapy (also known as Exposure and Response Prevention), and it gradually dissipates the anxiety as the patient learns that nothing bad happens when they’re exposed to the obsession and the compulsive behaviors are not performed. It does take time, but ERP also equips patients with a step-by-step process for coping whenever the obsessive thoughts begin to take hold again.
In some cases, a more general stress management therapy (SMT) approach works by helping patients to keep their stress levels in check and learn healthy problem-solving skills, which in turn improves their response to triggers and keeps the obsessions and compulsions at bay.
As with most mental and behavioral health disorders, there is no one-size-fits all treatment for OCD. Many people try a couple of different medications before they find one that works, and while one person may have more success with a general SMT program, another may find ERP more effective. When treatment doesn’t work, it can cause frustration and a sense of hopelessness, which is why the importance of continued research cannot be overstated.
New research and experimental OCD treatment
New research in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder shows promise for improving the odds that a person with OCD will receive a personalized treatment that works for them the first time around. Brain scans of participants revealed that those with more activation in brain circuits for processing cognitive demands and rewards were more likely to respond to OCD-specific therapies, whereas those with less activation in those same circuits were more likely to respond to general stress management therapies. This is a huge step forward, as it can allow for a more personalized therapeutic approach as well as potential intervention during key periods of brain development in younger patients.
Currently, there is also a new drug for the treatment of OCD that’s in phase 3 of a clinical trial. No new medications have been approved for the treatment of OCD in 20 years, and researchers are excited about the possibility that this new medication will help provide relief for those who are not adequately responding to currently available medications and therapies.
OCD clinical research study in San Diego at Synergy Research Centers
At Synergy Research Centers, we’re committed to doing our part to advance the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder and other mental and physical disorders. If you or someone you love suffers from OCD, you may be eligible to participate in our OCD clinical research study in San Diego. You’ll gain access to medications or other treatments not yet available to the general public, and you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing that your participation is leading to the relief for countless others who suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder. For more information, or to find out if you’re eligible, give us a call at (888) 539-0282 or fill out our contact form today.