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OCD - hand wash
OCD for hand wash treatment, she constantly has urges to wash hands every time which shows signs of ocd
Answers (10)
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If the handwashing is causing skin damage or taking up hours of her day, it is time to see a Psychological Counselor. Treatments like CBT and, in some cases, mild medication can bring fast recovery.
Dr.Senthil Kumar D
Consulting Homeopath & Psychologist,
Vivekananda Homeopathy Clinic & Psychologist Counseling Center,
Chennai & Panruti
https://homeoall.com/
Next Steps
You can visit our Psychologist Counseling Center in Chennai & Panruti. ð Visit: homeoall.com
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She isn't doing this on purpose; it is an involuntary mental loop. Constantly telling her "Your hands are clean" actually makes OCD worse because she becomes dependent on your validation. Instead, encourage her to sit with the discomfort.
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anxiety, not actual contamination. The urge feels real and urgent, but giving in only strengthens the cycle. Treatment focuses on helping the person gradually resist the compulsion while managing the discomfort that follows. Through techniques like exposure and response prevention (ERP), the person is guided to delay or reduce hand washing step by step, allowing the anxiety to rise and naturally fall without acting on it. Alongside this, cognitive work helps challenge exaggerated beliefs about contamination and danger.
Recovery is very possible with the right structure and consistency. It’s important to approach this with patience rather than force, because the goal is not to eliminate thoughts but to change the response to them. With regular practice and guidance, the intensity and frequency of urges reduce significantly over time. Take therapy. You can connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.
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"Hi there, I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but you’ve already taken the first brave step. I can guide you with a clear treatment plan tailored just for you, so you can feel better and regain control over your life. You can reach me directly on WhatsApp for quick support on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two."
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This is typical contamination OCD with compulsive hand washing, and it is very treatable; the core treatment is CBT with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—gradually resisting the urge to wash despite anxiety, which over time reduces the urge itself—along with medications like SSRIs (often in higher doses for OCD) if symptoms are frequent or severe; avoid repeatedly reassuring or allowing excessive washing as it reinforces the cycle, and instead encourage gradual delay and reduction in washing rituals; consult a psychiatrist/clinical psychologist for structured ERP, as with consistent therapy and medication, significant improvement is expected.
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I understand your concern. These symptoms need to be evaluated properly for us to make a diagnosis. And let me assure you that these symptoms are very much treatable. All you need to do is recognise them early and seek help.
You are already on the right track.
Feel free to drop a message and I can evaluate these complaints and begin the appropriate treatment.
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Please consult with me. Book a video slot.
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OCD can be treated and cured with accurate usage of medications
Also assessing other ocd symptoms other than washing and contamination and listing them to a hierarchy list
Medications as well as psychotherapy heals ocd
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Would like to know more about ocd symptoms duration treatment received and detailed personal history
Kindly contact nearby psychiatrist or u can WhatsApp for online consultation- nine one one three nine five four four one eight
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Hi.. medicines and therapy can help. Consult online for treatment
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Dr. Khushboo Jain
Neuropsychiatrist
9 yrs exp
Udaipur
This amount of history is not adequate for diagnosing any dis order if it is hampering your life then you should consult psychiatrist as soon as possible you can consult me on Practo
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Dr. Riya Gangwal
Psychiatrist
7 yrs exp
Indore
Needs proper assessment for assessing if it is clinical and if so then which grade mild or moderate or severe. Because if it is mild to moderate category therapy will be enough. But if she falls in severe category then medications will help. Contact me for online consultation on nine eight two six five four five six six zero.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.