Home remedies for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Home care cannot replace therapy for OCD, but it can support treatment and reduce stress. Be patient with yourself and avoid blame.

For the person with OCD

• Notice and name it: remind yourself "this is an OCD thought", not a fact or a warning
• Delay rituals: try waiting a few minutes before doing a ritual and slowly extend the wait. A therapist can guide you in doing this safely (ERP).
• Reduce reassurance seeking and checking gradually, with your therapist's plan
• Keep a routine: regular sleep, meals and daily activity
• Exercise and relaxation: walking, yoga and slow breathing lower anxiety
• Limit alcohol, tobacco and too much caffeine, which can worsen anxiety
• Write down symptoms and triggers to share with your doctor
• Connect: talk to someone you trust, and consider a support group

For family

• Learn about OCD and respond with kindness, not anger or teasing
• Avoid joining in rituals or giving endless reassurance, which keeps OCD going. Ask the therapist how to respond.