Obsessive-compulsive disorder support groups: the Iowa model

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a distressing and potentially disabling disorder characterized by intrusive obsessional thoughts and repetitive ritualistic behaviors. In recent years, OCD has been recognized as a relatively common condition that responds well to treatment, usually a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Support groups, usually patient-generated, have become popular adjuncts to the treatment of a variety of conditions. Their applicability to OCD is explored in this report and a successful model developed by the authors is described. The model emphasizes patient education and emotional support. A similar group for family members is also described. Both groups have provided interdisciplinary training experiences for resident physicians in psychiatry, medical and nursing students, and social work practicum students.