How to prepare for a video visit about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Mild to Moderate

Audience: adult

If you have mild to moderate Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your symptoms and discuss treatment options. Preparing for your telemedicine appointment can make the visit more effective. During the video visit, you can talk about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and learn about therapies that may help. Mild to moderate OCD often responds well to treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy and sometimes medications. Telemedicine can provide access to care from home, but it cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams. Knowing what to expect and having information ready can help you get the most from your visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency care immediately.
• Inability to perform basic daily activities due to OCD symptoms — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Sudden worsening of symptoms or new severe anxiety or depression — arrange prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing mild to moderate OCD symptoms and concerns.
• Providing education about OCD and treatment options.
• Guiding cognitive-behavioral therapy and follow-up care.
• Prescribing and managing medications when appropriate.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as suicidal thoughts or severe mental health crises.
• Performing physical examinations or urgent medical interventions.
• Diagnosing complex psychiatric conditions requiring in-person assessment.
• Providing immediate crisis intervention or hospitalization decisions.

What is Mild to Moderate OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition where people have unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repeat actions (compulsions) to ease their anxiety. Mild to moderate OCD means these symptoms happen often but do not completely stop you from daily activities. Understanding your symptoms helps your healthcare provider suggest the best support.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from your home. You can describe your thoughts and behaviors, ask questions, and get advice on managing OCD. Providers often recommend therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be done online, and may discuss medication options. Telemedicine makes it easier to access care without travel.

What to Prepare Before Your Video Visit

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What Happens During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to OCD. They may ask about your daily routine, stress levels, and any other health issues. Together, you will discuss possible treatments and next steps. The provider may schedule follow-up visits or refer you to specialists if needed.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience severe distress, thoughts of harming yourself or others, or cannot care for yourself, seek emergency help immediately. Telemedicine is not suitable for urgent crises. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if you have these symptoms.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private place with good lighting and internet connection.
• Make a list of your OCD symptoms, including how often they occur and their impact.
• Note any treatments or medications you have tried before.
• Prepare questions or topics you want to discuss with your provider.
• Have your identification and any health insurance information ready if required.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and recommendations provided during the visit.
• Schedule any follow-up appointments as advised.
• Begin or continue therapy sessions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or side effects from medications.
• Seek immediate care if you experience worsening symptoms or emergency signs.

FAQs

What should I expect during a video visit for OCD?

You can expect to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to OCD. The provider will ask questions to understand your symptoms and may suggest treatment options like therapy or medication.

Can telemedicine provide therapy for OCD?

Yes, many providers offer cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) through video visits, which is an effective treatment for mild to moderate OCD.

What if I do not have a private space for my video visit?

Try to find a quiet place where you feel comfortable and won’t be interrupted. Using headphones can help maintain privacy during your session.

How do I know if my OCD symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe?

Severity depends on how much the symptoms interfere with your daily life. Mild to moderate symptoms cause distress but usually allow you to function; severe symptoms may cause significant disruption and need urgent care.

Can I get medication through a telemedicine visit?

Providers may prescribe medications during a telemedicine visit if appropriate. They will discuss benefits, risks, and monitor your response over time.

Sources

1. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience emergency symptoms or severe distress, seek immediate medical attention.