
Table of Contents
Why You Should Consider Joining an OCD Support Group
Written By: Charlie Health Editorial Team
Clinically Reviewed By: Jordanne Greenberg
January 1, 2025
4 min.
OCD support groups offer a welcoming space to share experiences, gain insights, and connect with others, providing both emotional and practical benefits for managing the disorder.
Learn more about our Clinical Review Process
Table of Contents
Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can be an isolating and challenging experience. The intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that characterize OCD often interfere with daily life, making it difficult for people with the condition to feel understood or connected. For many, seeking support becomes an essential step toward managing the disorder and improving quality of life. OCD support groups offer a valuable space for individuals to share experiences, gain insights, and connect with others facing similar struggles—read on to learn more about their benefits, and how to join one.
Treatment that includes peer groups and individual therapy for OCD
Get support from others who understand what you’re going through.
What are OCD support groups?
OCD support groups are gatherings where people with OCD come together to discuss their experiences, challenges, and successes. These groups may be organized in person or online, offering flexibility and accessibility to participants. In-person groups often meet at community centers, hospitals, or mental health organizations, while virtual groups convene via video calls, forums, or specialized platforms. Virtual options are especially valuable for individuals who may have transportation challenges, live in remote areas, or prefer the comfort of participating from home.
Support groups differ from professional therapy in their structure and purpose. While therapy focuses on individualized treatment plans led by licensed professionals, support groups are peer-led or facilitated by a moderator. The emphasis is on shared experiences, mutual encouragement, and creating a sense of community rather than providing clinical care. For many, this distinction makes support groups a welcoming and less intimidating space to begin seeking help.
Benefits of joining an OCD support group
Joining a support group can feel daunting at first; it is natural to have reservations. However, many participants find that their initial hesitation quickly gives way to relief and gratitude as they realize they are not alone, and connect with others who understand their journey. Also, data shows that group therapy can be as effective as individual therapy. Here are some benefits of joining an OCD support group:
Emotional benefits
On an emotional level, these groups provide a unique sense of understanding and validation. Sharing experiences with others who genuinely “get it” can alleviate feelings of isolation and stigma. The opportunity to express fears, frustrations, and triumphs in a supportive environment fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance that is often hard to find elsewhere.
Practical benefits
Practically speaking, support groups are a valuable resource for learning and growth. Participants can exchange coping strategies, discuss helpful tools such as books or apps, and share techniques for managing symptoms.
These groups are also significantly more cost-effective than professional group therapy sessions, as they typically involve lower fees or are even free in some cases. This affordability makes them accessible to a wider range of people who may not have the financial means for traditional therapy. Additionally, support groups often require less time commitment, with sessions scheduled flexibly to accommodate various lifestyles. Their wider accessibility also creates opportunities to meet new people, further expanding one’s support network and fostering new connections.
How to find the right OCD support group
Finding a suitable OCD support group requires some research and consideration. Start by exploring local resources such as mental health organizations, hospitals, or community centers (one place to start is just searching “OCD support groups near me” online). Many organizations also offer directories of virtual support groups, which can be particularly helpful for those with demanding schedules or limited access to in-person meetings.
When evaluating potential groups, consider factors like group size, meeting format, and facilitation style. Some groups are small and intimate, while others might include a larger number of participants. Similarly, the format may range from structured discussions with a clear agenda to more casual, open-ended conversations. Some groups are peer-led, while others are moderated by mental health professionals or trained facilitators. Finding a group that aligns with your preferences and comfort level is key to making the most of the experience. For example, those new to support groups may prefer a virtual setting that can serve as a gentle introduction to the concept of sharing in a group environment.
Complementing support groups with professional therapy
While support groups offer immense value, OCD is a complex disorder that often requires a multifaceted approach, including therapy and, in some cases, medication. Research suggests that social support plays a beneficial role in OCD treatment and may positively influence readiness to change (RTC), a key factor in seeking treatment. Sharing symptoms can improve relationships to one’s diagnosis, making support groups a valuable complement to professional OCD treatment.
For individuals with mild to moderate OCD symptoms, once-weekly therapy can be an effective option to provide structured support and guidance. In more severe cases of OCD, where symptoms are impairing your ability to function on a daily basis, more intensive treatment options, such as intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), may be beneficial. These programs provide a structured and comprehensive approach, incorporating evidence-based therapies to help individuals navigate their challenges and build sustainable coping strategies.
By combining professional treatment with the support of peers, individuals with OCD can create a holistic care plan that addresses both the emotional and practical aspects of their condition.
How Charlie Health can help
If you or a loved one are struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides mental health treatment for people dealing with serious mental health conditions, including OCD, anxiety, depression, and more. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With support, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.