OCD: How Family Members Can Cope

Topic Overview

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can disrupt the entire family. In order to help someone with OCD, it is important that family members or loved ones learn as much as possible about the illness.

It may help to attend counseling or support groups with or apart from your loved one who has OCD. You can learn ways to help the person with behavioral therapy. And you can learn ways to help him or her take medicines regularly.

You may also help by providing the health professional with information on behaviors and the effects of treatment.

How you respond to your loved one's symptoms is important. An angry response can make the symptoms worse. And accommodating his or her behaviors may also be harmful. It is important that you talk to your loved one's health professional about how you should respond and the best ways for you to help.