SANE defines OCD as “an anxiety disorder, characterised by the presence of recurring intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses – obsessions and repetitive behavioural and mental rituals – compulsions. People with OCD are usually aware that their symptoms are irrational and excessive, but they find the obsessions uncontrollable and the compulsions difficult or impossible to resist.”
And like any mental condition, it can be pretty difficult to treat. But experts reckon they’ve cottoned on to something pretty effective, and it’s called ‘OCD Stop!‘.
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It’s based online, and it’s supposedly at least three times more effective than medication in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
The findings of a study into the effectiveness of online, group-based treatment were unveiled yesterday by Professor Mike Kyrios, director of the Australian National University Research School of Psychology and noted expert in the realm of OCD.
Here’s a vid of Kyrios explaining the program back in ’11:
Kyrios explained that OCD is certainly treatable, and that the online program developed is very effective.
“We compared OCD Stop! against an online relaxation treatment, helping people deal with their anxiety in difficult situations. It, too, was effective although the cognitive-behaviour therapy program was significantly better,” he said.
Features of OCD such as unwanted and intrusive thoughts mean some people stay quiet about their condition out of embarrassment – but Kyrios reckons the nature of online therapy can sidestep this.
Further, online therapy is notably more convenient than conventional therapy, particularly for those living in rural and remote communities.
He also pointed out that “patients who have attended the standard rebated 10 sessions a year and can’t afford to keep going privately, could benefit by continuing with this program.”
Source: The Age.
Photo: Stranger Than Fiction.
You can learn more about OCD Stop! here. BeyondBlue is only a call away on 1300 22 4636, and they can provide 24/7 counselling. If you’re in a crisis, you can ring Lifeline on 13 11 12.
