Cognitive behavioural therapy is the best-supported treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder. It doesn't work equally well for everyone, though. Some people notice only partial improvement, or their symptoms return after treatment ends. A 2024 review asked whether mindfulness-based approaches could help fill that gap.
The authors examined ten clinical trials on mindfulness training for OCD. These teach people to notice their thoughts without judging or reacting to them. Rather than replacing CBT, mindfulness was explored as something added alongside it, aimed at building emotional regulation, more flexible thinking, and a greater capacity to sit with intrusive thoughts instead of acting on them.
The review found real promise in this combined approach. The studies used many different techniques, though, and responses varied from person to person. No single method suits everyone. More research is needed before firm guidance can be given on which approach works best for whom.
For anyone whose OCD hasn't responded fully to standard treatment, this is a reminder that other options exist. If intrusive thoughts or compulsions are affecting your life, speaking with a psychologist is a good place to start.