Is the key to overcoming OCD facing the fear and not performing the compulsions?

Question

Is the key to overcoming OCD facing the fear and not performing the compulsions?

Answer 1

That is part of it. Unfortunately that is very difficult for some to overcome. You can learn to train yourself to avoid performing the compulsions. I had it as a child. I used distraction techniques such as leaving the room. I rarely if ever have had any more compulsions. I suppose after ignoring them so long they stopped.

Answer 2

Yes, that is a part of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. It encourages you to avoid compulsive or checking behaviours as much as possible so that you can begin to dis-associate the compulsive behaviour with a protective effect. Creating a checklist of the times you carry out a specific compulsive behaviour (eg: checking the door is locked), whether it is locked or not and if anything happened because you didn't check is also useful because it can help you to see that by carrying out these repetitive actions you are only undermining your confidence in yourself. I know this did help me (along with serious quantities of medication and a long course of CBT) and although I'm not free from my OCD (I probably never will be) it doesn't hamper my life in the way that it used to.  

Answer 3

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be very affective in treating OCD for some people, if performed properly.

Answer 4

Yes this is one of the major components. I think this is important but it must be used repeatedly, consistently, and mindfully.

I also feel medication is beneficial and therapy; OCD is a very frustrating and controlling disorder.