CBD is growing in popularity, but there’s no solid evidence that it effectively treats OCD. While some people turn to CBD, THC, or supplements for relief, experts caution that these options don’t address the root causes of OCD. Evidence-based treatments like exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy—often supported by medication when needed—remain the most effective way to manage symptoms and regain control.
Sometimes, it feels like CBD (cannabidiol) is the new go-to remedy for every ailment. Sore muscles? There’s a CBD lotion for that. Feeling stressed after a long day? Maybe a CBD-infused drink will do the trick. Can’t fall asleep? Just try a CBD gummy.
With so many promised benefits, you might be wondering what CBD can do for Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Is there any real connection between CBD and OCD relief? Or is it just another untested social media wellness trend? Read on to better understand what CBD is, and whether it can help with OCD symptoms.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the main active ingredients found in the cannabis plant. CBD is typically extracted from hemp plants, which are cannabis plants that contain less than 0.3% THC—the psychoactive compound that causes the “high” associated with cannabis. Despite being just one of many compounds in the cannabis plant, CBD has gained significant attention for its potential benefits without the psychoactive effects.
While it used to be part of the controlled substances act, CBD derived specifically from hemp plants is now legal in all 50 US states. This means it is easy to access in stores and online, without a medical cannabis license.
It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means it’s important to check your CBD products to make sure they have been tested for quality assurance by a third party. Untested products may contain varying amounts of THC and could create unwanted psychoactive effects.
Another safety concern with CBD is that it’s mostly sold as a supplement, not a medication. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate dietary supplements, there’s no real oversight of what’s in the products you’re buying. This means you can’t be entirely sure that the CBD you buy has the active ingredients or the dosage it claims on the label.
Despite the lack of regulation, CBD’s appeal continues to grow—in large part due to limited research that suggests CBD may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. However, more studies are needed to know for sure. In the meantime, it’s important to note that CBD is currently only FDA-approved as a medicinal treatment for epilepsy.
Does CBD help with OCD?
OCD is a mental health condition, in which individuals repeatedly experience intrusive thoughts, urges, feelings, sensations and/or images. These obsessions can create intense distress, leading to compulsive actions—both physical and mental—performed in an attempt to find relief.
When it comes to whether or not CBD can help with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the short answer is no. CBD is not a cure, or a first-line treatment. According to Tracie Ibrahim, LMFT, CST, and Chief Compliance Officer at NOCD, there’s no solid evidence that CBD can ease the symptoms of OCD, despite stories you may see on social media.
While some people hope CBD can ease anxiety—another common issue linked to OCD—there isn’t enough research to support this claim, either. “There’s just not enough studies to show anything about CBD and anxiety,” says Ibrahim.
While CBD may seem tempting, Ibrahim cautions that OCD is rarely treated using a quick fix: “If these remedies did something, then everybody would be taking them because that would be easy.” says Ibrahim. Instead, OCD is best managed using evidence-based treatments like exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy and medication, along with professional support.
Understanding mental health and substance use
When it comes to managing mental health, it’s important to understand the broader implications of relying on substances. “I always think there’s a danger in self-medicating if you’re using it to try to solve a problem,” says Ibrahim. “Because, what will you do if a problem exists, and you can’t self-medicate at that time?”
According to Ibrahim, cannabis and OCD often don’t go well together. While CBD is non-psychoactive—meaning it doesn’t get you high—and cannabis typically isn’t addictive, people navigating mental health conditions (including OCD) can more easily find themselves becoming reliant on substances as a form of escape. A CBD reliance is unlikely to cause major problems, but it’s an important potential issue to be aware of—especially if your CBD products haven’t been checked for quality assurance and may contain more THC.
“THC can increase anxiety,” Ibrahim explains. “It also can get in the way of the learning and habituation needed for ERP.” At bare minimum, Ibrahim recommends refraining from substances and supplements for several hours before and after ERP therapy sessions.
If you are considering trying CBD to manage your OCD symptoms, it’s important to tell your provider—especially if you’re taking other medications—so they can make sure there are no negative interactions.
Do any supplements help with OCD?
Some people find that certain supplements, like vitamins, herbs, or natural remedies improve overall well-being. While this can be a positive step toward feeling healthier, it’s important to note that supplements are not an evidence-based treatment for OCD. Supplements might complement your overall wellness routine, but they won’t address the underlying cycle of obsessions and compulsions that drives OCD symptoms.
If you’re considering adding supplements to your routine, it’s a good idea to talk with your provider first. They can make sure that any supplements you take won’t interfere with medications you’re currently using. Remember, focusing on evidence-based treatments, like ERP and medication, is the most reliable way to manage and reduce OCD symptoms.
What are the most effective ways to treat OCD?
While CBD and other supplements can seem appealing, they are not proven treatments for OCD—and can sometimes distract from more evidence-based approaches, like ERP therapy. “Self-medicating [is] not helpful because… you’re not learning how to manage your symptoms, which is what ERP can teach you,” explains Zinman-Ibrahim.
Self-medicating is not helpful because you’re not learning how to manage your symptoms, which is what ERP can teach you.
Tracie Ibrahim
To effectively manage OCD, it’s crucial to focus on methods backed by substantial research. While a variety of options exist—including light therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and general cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—ERP remains the most effective treatment. Let’s take a closer look at how it can help relieve symptoms.
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All our therapists are licensed and trained in exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD.
What Is ERP Therapy?
ERP therapy is a clinically proven treatment developed specifically for OCD. It involves gradually exposing you to your fears, while teaching you how to respond differently to feelings of distress. This process allows individuals to sit with obsessive thoughts without resorting to compulsions. Over time, ERP helps weaken OCD’s grip by reducing the power of intrusive thoughts—breaking the OCD cycle.
How Does ERP Work?
ERP works by helping people build tolerance to their anxiety and intrusive thoughts. Your therapist will work with you to address your fears in a controlled environment, starting with lower-level concerns and building up to bigger fears. Everything will be done at your own pace, as ERP is meant to be gradual.
For example, if you have contamination OCD—a subtype characterized by fears surrounding germs and illness—you might be guided to touch one doorknob each day, without washing your hands immediately after. Gradually, your therapist might increase this exposure until you are touching multiple public objects each day, without immediately sanitizing afterward. By resisting the compulsion to wash, you’d learn to sit with discomfort until it naturally subsides. Over time, this exposure will help you learn to feel less distressed when faced with your fears.
ERP can feel challenging at first, but its long-term benefits are significant. By working with a trained OCD therapist, you’ll gain the tools to navigate fears without feeling controlled by them. ERP empowers people to live more freely and confidently, making it the most effective form of OCD treatment.
How Medication Can Support ERP Therapy
While ERP is the foundation of OCD treatment, medication can serve as an important supplementary tool for some individuals. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed to help reduce the intensity of OCD symptoms, making it easier for individuals to fully engage in ERP therapy.
It’s important to note that medication is typically most effective when used in conjunction with ERP. While it can help ease symptoms like anxiety or intrusive thoughts, medication alone doesn’t teach people the skills to manage OCD in the long term. “Medication can help you feel less overwhelmed, but ERP gives you the tools to face your fears and build lasting resilience,” explains Ibrahim.
Ultimately, finding the right treatment plan is a personal process, but a combination of ERP and medication can be highly effective for many. By working with a provider who specializes in OCD, you can develop a tailored approach to managing your symptoms, and live a more fulfilling life.
Key Takeaways
- CBD and supplements may seem appealing for managing OCD, but they are not evidence-based treatments, and do not address the root causes of the disorder.
- Exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is the most effective treatment for OCD, helping individuals face their triggers and break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.
- Medication, such as SSRIs, can be a helpful tool alongside ERP, reducing symptoms and making it easier to engage in therapy.
- Focusing on evidence-based treatments like ERP gives you the best chance of managing OCD symptoms and improving your quality of life.