Supporting Someone With OCD: How to Help a Loved One
The Nystrom & Associates providers consulted for this article on how to support a loved one with OCD are Wade Crandall, MA, LPCC, and Emily Conery, MA, LPCC.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be overwhelming for those who experience it, but the support of a loved one can make a profound difference. If someone you care about is living with OCD, offering the right kind of support can truly help them in their journey. In this article, we’ll share tips on supporting someone with OCD, which will also help in supporting loved ones with OCD effectively.
Related: 5 Common Myths About OCD
Educate Yourself About OCD
One of the most powerful ways to support someone with OCD is to educate yourself about the disorder. OCD is a complex mental health condition often misunderstood. For instance, media representations of OCD tend to focus on compulsive behaviors, like handwashing, but OCD manifests differently for each person.
OCD typically involves intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). For example, your loved one might have an intrusive thought about whether they left the stove on, which compels them to check it multiple times.
By learning more about OCD, you can avoid common misconceptions and understand how to help them manage their condition better. Your knowledge will also help you communicate more effectively, fostering a more supportive environment for your loved one.
Related: How to Help a Loved One With Addiction Recovery
Offer Emotional Support
Being emotionally available is crucial when helping a loved one with OCD. Provide a non-judgmental space for them to share their thoughts and feelings. Often, they need a listener, not someone to "fix" the problem immediately. Simply validating their experience can make a huge difference.
Show empathy. You might not fully understand why a particular thought triggers such anxiety, but you can acknowledge the impact it has on them. Patience is key. Celebrate their small wins and remind them that progress, no matter how slow, is meaningful.
Encourage Professional Help
While your emotional support is invaluable, professional treatment is critical in supporting someone with OCD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is highly effective in managing OCD. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can also help reduce intrusive thoughts.
If your loved one is not currently receiving treatment, gently encourage them to seek help from an OCD specialist. You could offer to assist with researching options or accompany them to their first appointment if they feel anxious.
At Nystrom & Associates, our therapists and psychiatrists specialize in OCD treatment. If your loved one is ready to take the next step, they can contact us for a consultation.
Recognizing Family Accommodation for OCD
Family accommodation happens when loved ones modify their behavior to alleviate the anxiety experienced by someone with OCD. This might involve offering constant reassurance, avoiding certain triggers, or participating in rituals. While well-intentioned, these actions can unintentionally reinforce OCD symptoms and hinder progress.
To reduce accommodation, it’s important to establish clear communication and create a unified approach as a family. Consider starting small by gradually setting boundaries. You can also create a "family contract," outlining agreed-upon steps for reducing compulsions together. This collaborative effort encourages your loved one to manage their symptoms without relying on family involvement in rituals. If needed, a mental health professional can offer guidance on how to navigate this process effectively.
Related: What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
Final Thoughts
Supporting someone with OCD compassionately can make a significant difference in their recovery journey. But it's also important to recognize when professional help is necessary.
If you or a loved one is seeking treatment, Nystrom & Associates is here to provide comprehensive care. Contact us at 1-844-NYSTROM or request an appointment online to connect with a therapist or psychiatrist who can help guide your loved one through treatment for OCD.
Supporting someone with OCD doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—you can make a real impact by showing empathy, staying informed, and encouraging the right kind of support.
