Tips for Living with OCD

For those living with obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD, a constant compulsion causes them to repeat the same behaviors and activities. This is a debilitating disorder that can severely impact your quality of life. If you have an obsessive-compulsive disorder, you need an effective OCD treatment program that gives you the tools you need to cope with your unique situation. At Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, CA, each client receives a personalized treatment plan to help them regain health and wellness.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

OCD is an anxiety disorder that causes incessant ideas and thoughts, resulting in repeated and unwanted behavior. This dramatically impacts the quality of life for those suffering from this condition. To improve your chances of recovery, it’s important to enroll in an effective treatment program.

At Oceanfront Recovery, we also offer a dual diagnosis recovery program that addresses substance use disorders and mental health disorders. Without addressing the underlying causes of drug abuse, you run the risk of relapse and jeopardize your sobriety. Therefore, we highly recommend that you choose a facility equipped to handle both your challenges.

Tips for Living With OCD

Medication and therapy can help you deal with the long-term effects of OCD. Here are some tips that can help you avoid triggering your obsessive-compulsive disorder.

• Stick to your prescriptions: Instead of self-medicating with alcohol and substance abuse, stick to your OCD medication. You may think that smoking, drinking, or using illicit drugs helps you remain in control, but it’s actually just complicating your obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Get enough sleep: Anxiety can keep you awake at night. However, meditating or writing in a journal can help you slow your thoughts down and prepare to rest. Most people need 7 to 9 hours of sleep to function well the next day. It may take some experimentation to discover a routine that works for you, so ask your therapist for ideas to get started.
• Stay active: You don’t have to be a gym rat or world-class sprinter to stay active. Walking and other exercises can help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety.
• Take your prescribed medication: Follow the doctor’s instructions and take your assigned medication faithfully. If you experience side effects, discuss them with your medical practitioner, so they can adjust your dosage or try a new medication.
• Learn to relax: It’s important to learn what hobbies and interests can help you relax. Some people try holistic therapies such as yoga, Tai chi, and meditation to still their mind and stay in the moment. You can also spend time with family and friends, take classes on subjects that interest you, and plan weekend trips to keep you motivated.

Eat Healthy Meals

Don’t skip meals and include nutritious components when preparing your food.  When you get hungry, your blood sugar level drops, making you moody and vulnerable to an OCD attack. Nutritious foods that you can slip into each meal include nuts, eggs, beans, and other proteins packed with nutrients.

Avoid too many carbs and sugary drinks and foods, opting for fruits and vegetables that contain a ton of fiber and vitamins. Caffeine can trigger anxiety, so cut back on the number of caffeinated drinks that you consume.

Find OCD Treatment and Substance Abuse Rehab at Oceanfront Recovery

If you’re living with OCD and have a co-occurring alcohol or drug use disorder, get the help you deserve. You can talk to the admissions team at Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, CA, for more information on our services. Do you want help achieving the new beginning you’ve been dreaming about? Contact us at 877.279.1777 to learn about the benefits of our rehab, recovery, aftercare, and sober living options.