❝I created this video series in response to the many questions therapists and psychiatrists hear from patients when considering medications. Each of these is directly taken from a therapist or patient to help ensure we’re addressing actual patient questions and concerns.
Hopefully reviewing these videos will help you feel more empowered and curious, and also realize you’re not alone! It’s perfectly normal to have hesitation and to take seriously your mental and physical wellbeing.
We hope you’ll find this series helpful and you’ll consider sharing it with others you know struggling with Anxiety and OCD.
As always, please click the link above to Schedule a Consultation if you’d like to ask additional questions or discuss your options further.❞
- Weston Ferrer, MD
Disclaimer: The information contained in the video content posted on this platform is strictly provided for informational and educational purposes only.
Demystifying OCD Medications
What You Need to Know About OCD Meds
- Which medications are commonly used for OCD?
- How do OCD medications work?
- How long do these medications take to work?
- How do I know if the medication is working?
- How do you decide when medications are necessary?
- Should I try medication or therapy first? Or both at the same time?
- What happens if I stop taking medication?
Side Effects and Safety
OCD Medications: Are They Safe? Managing Side Effects and Risks
- What are the side effects of medications for OCD?
- Likely to get side effects?
- Can we reduce the risk of side effects? How?
- Will medications impact fertility, pregnancy, or breastfeeding?
- Is it safe to take medications long-term, or are they toxic over time?
Concerns About Medications
Will OCD Medications Change Me? Addressing Common Fears
- Will taking medications change my personality?
- Will medication change my brain? Permanently?
- Isn’t medication just a “band-aid” that doesn’t address the real problem?
- Will I become addicted to OCD medications?
- Do I have to be on medications the rest of my life?
- Is taking medication a weakness or a sign that I’m not strong enough to overcome OCD on my own?
- Will medications make me impulsive or cause me to do something bad?
- What about benzodiazepines as needed?
- Is the dose for SSRIs higher for OCD?
- Will reducing my anxiety with medication make me more likely to act on my obsessions?
- What if I had a bad experience with medications in the past?
- What if contamination fears or other obsessions make it hard for me to start a medication?
- What if I’ve tried “every medication” and nothing has helped?
Practical Tips for Medication Success
How to Make OCD Treatment Work for You: FAQs Answered
- How do I find a specialty psychiatrist?
- How do I find a specialist in my insurance network?
- How much do medications cost, and what if I don’t have insurance?
- How often will I need to see my psychiatrist?
- Will my psychiatrist collaborate with my therapist or other members of my care team?
- Should I do genetic testing to find out which medication works best for me?
- Is it better to do telehealth or in person?
Exploring Alternatives and Special Cases
Beyond Pills: Alternative OCD Treatments You Should Know
- Are there any supplements for OCD that have good evidence behind them?
- What is the evidence for alternative treatments like TMS, ketamine, or DBS?
- When might multiple medications be needed?
Taking Charge of Your OCD Treatment Journey
Success Stories and Empowerment: Your Role in OCD Recovery
- What is the psychiatrist’s role in my care?
- How can I stay in the driver’s seat of my treatment decisions?
- What are reasonable expectations for what medication can and can’t do?
- What are the signs that my current treatment plan isn’t enough?
- Can you share success stories about people who found relief with OCD medications?
- How do I know if it’s time to see a psychiatrist?