Geometric Meditation-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Case Study
arXiv Preprint Archive – April 10, 2019
Source: arXiv
Summary
A novel meditation technique combining geometric patterns with cognitive behavioral therapy showed promising results in treating severe OCD. The approach helped a patient significantly reduce intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors through eight weekly sessions. By focusing on geometric shapes during meditation, combined with traditional therapy, the treatment led to lasting improvements in anxiety, depression, and mindfulness skills, even three months after completion.
Abstract
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), characterized by unwanted and distressing intrusive thoughts, images, urges, doubts and ideas or sensations and repetitive mental or behavioral acts, which is regarded as an overwhelming mental disorder. Over the past few years, several studies have indicated how mindfulness-based interventions may be effectively used to remediate OCD symptoms based on which such methods are endorsed as effective complementary or alternative options to remediate OCD. The present pilot investigation assessed the effectiveness of Geometric Meditation-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy (GM-CBT) as a novel integrated approach to help OCD symptoms. Accordingly, an eight-week treatment program (90 minute sessions per week) in a single case of intractable OCD was found to result in a significant reduction in OCD symptoms, anxiety and depression as well as increased mindfulness skills and subsequent secondary outcomes. A three-month post treatment follow up suggested long-lasting beneficial effects. Such a pilot model may receive further endorsement as a holistic CBT approach for OCD.