Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects a significant part of the U.S. population. Those with loved ones who have OCD may wonder, “can obsessive-compulsive disorder be cured?” Unfortunately, despite OCD touching the lives of so many, accurate and up-to-date statistics can be challenging to find. Recent statistics suggest up to 2.3% of Americans live with OCD.1
Like many mental health conditions, the precise cause of OCD remains unknown. Mental health experts believe there are several possible contributing factors to OCD development, including:3
Obsessions are persistent, unwanted, and repeated thoughts and urges. OCD obsessions are so disruptive that they cause overwhelming and persistent anxiety and distress. Obsessions often “take over” when trying to do or think about other things. Many obsessions have themes such as:
If you wonder, can obsessive-compulsive disorder be cured? The short answer is no. There is no single cure for OCD, and symptoms do not go away on their own. However, treatment for OCD can help reduce the intensity and interference of obsessions and compulsions. Studies show that the most effective treatments for OCD are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications.
Specifically, a type of CBT called exposure and response prevention (ERP) combined with a class of medications called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) have proven effective in helping people with OCD. Some research suggests up to 70% of people benefit from this treatment combination.5
Can obsessive-compulsive disorder be cured in North Carolina? Although OCD treatment may not lead to a cure, it is possible to manage symptoms and dramatically reduce their impact on your life. Again, the two primary treatments for OCD in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill are psychotherapy and medications.
Exposure and response therapy is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral therapy. ERP sessions involve a licensed, trained practitioner who understands how the impacts of exposure therapy can affect someone with OCD. ERP therapy involves gradual exposure to an obsession or feared object.
If outpatient therapy is ineffective for you or a loved one, residential or inpatient options may be the most helpful. In a residential setting, providers use psychotherapy and medication in a caring environment that provides 24/7 support and guidance. Most residential programs aim to provide patient care and stabilization until it is possible to transition to a lower level of care in the Triangle area.
While we cannot cure OCD, Advaita Integrated Medicine can help to treat and manage your symptoms. Our team of providers at AIM is here to help you take the first steps toward whole-person recovery. We understand that healing the mind, body, and spirit as one unit is necessary to achieve optimal wellness. Our team of licensed, caring, compassionate mental health professionals will work with you to develop a care plan that meets you where you are and guides you as you progress through your wellness journey.
One of our treatment professionals can answer your questions, such as can obsessive-compulsive disorder be cured and others. To learn more about OCD treatment near you, contact a member of our admissions team today.
Gregory Ng is the CEO of Brooks Bell. In his nearly 25 years in marketing, Greg has created innovative solutions leading to digital and cognitive transformations for the biggest high-tech, retail and financial brands in the world. Greg adds knowledge in marketing strategy, content production, and brand awareness to the AHV advisory board.
Hunt Broyhill holds several positions within the Broyhill family offices and serves as President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of BMC Fund and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill Asset Management. Hunt brings valuable experience in capital allocation, real estate, and investor relations to the AHV advisory board.
Alan Hughes was formerly the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. In addition to BCBS, Alan held officer positions in both operations and technology at GE Commercial Finance, Deutsche Bank, and American Express. Alan brings a unique combination of efficient process design and technological problem solving to the AHV advisory board.
Lynn is the CEO of Broadstep. Previously, Lynn held various roles in both healthcare and finance where she oversaw multi-site, multi-state organizations within primary care, acute and chronic services, hospitals, and pharmacies. Lynn brings valuable experience in healthcare leadership, recruiting, and growth strategy to the AHV advisory board.
John Roos is the retired Senior Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Under Roos’s tenure, the company’s revenue grew from $1.5 billion to $9.5 billion, while adding 1 million members. John brings valuable experience in growth strategy, enterprise sales, and provider contracting to the AHV advisory board.
Dr. Hendree Jones is the Executive Director of UNC-Horizons and an internationally recognized expert in behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children. Dr. Jones has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1994 and has over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Jones is an advisor to the UN, WHO, SAMHSA, ASAM, and ACOG through which she consults throughout the United States and internationally. Dr. Jones brings valuable experience in grant writing, research, and healthcare administration to the AHV advisory board.
Brad is the CEO Emeritus for BCBSNC and Chair of the BCBSNC Foundation. He served as Gov. Jim Hunt’s general counsel and is a past chair of the UNC Board of Governors. Brad serves on numerous public and private boards and is a lifelong North Carolinian with degrees from Appalachian State, Wake Forest, and Duke. He brings valuable experience in healthcare, law, higher education, and politics.
Jake Summers is a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to bringing the energy of change to existing healthcare business models and making higher quality healthcare more accessible. Jake co-founded a mango farming/export company in Cambodia and serves as an advisor for a number of small businesses. Jake is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine and is the Development Director and a Partner of Green Hill.
Tripp Johnson is a serial healthcare entrepreneur who’s dedicated his post-military professional life to serving young adults. He is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine, Advaita Health Ventures, and Green Hill Recovery. Tripp is passionate about making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible through innovative business models and technology-focused solutions.