Dr Vohra's · Updated
Why reassurance makes OCD worse
Reassurance is a compulsion done by someone else. It brings a minute of relief and then the doubt returns stronger, so the asking increases. Over months, families can end up spending hours a day in rituals. Stopping feels unkind, which is why it works best as an agreed plan: "We have decided together that I will not answer checking questions; I will say 'that is the OCD asking' and we will move on."
What helps
- Learn about OCD: the thoughts are unwanted, not wishes; the person is not choosing this
- Agree a plan with the person and their therapist to cut accommodation step by step
- Praise effort at resisting rituals, not the outcome
- Keep family life going: meals, outings, routines
- Do not argue about whether the fear is rational; OCD already knows it is not
Treatment that works
ERP, a form of CBT, is the treatment with the strongest evidence, and family involvement improves results, especially for children and teenagers. SSRIs at adequate doses help moderate to severe OCD. Dr Vohra's provides both, in person in New Delhi and online.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it cruel to refuse reassurance?
- It feels that way at first. Done as an agreed plan, with warmth, it is the kindest thing a family can do, because it lets treatment work.
- Can OCD in a child be treated?
- Yes. Family-based ERP is effective for children and adolescents, and the clinic's child and adolescent psychiatry work covers it.
- How do I book at Dr Vohra's?
- Call or WhatsApp +91 99992 49223, email help@drvohras.com, or use the contact form. In person at 29/24, East Patel Nagar, New Delhi 110008, or online across India.
- What if this is an emergency?
- Call Tele-MANAS 14416 or KIRAN 1800-599-0019 (24x7, free) or 112. Dr Vohra's is not an emergency service.