OCD: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions for Students

What exactly is wrong with me? Is it obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Hello, I am a student and recently I performed poorly on my exams.
I often worry about not being promoted to the next grade, and since then, my behavior has become increasingly strange (I feel that if I don't do certain things, bad things will happen).
For example, 1.
I frequently wash my hands even when they are clean or have already been washed; I still continue to wash them, and although I have tried to control myself, I can't help it.
(I have tried various methods.) 2.
I wear glasses and often clean them even when they are already clean; I continue to wipe them until they are almost damaged.
(This situation is somewhat similar to the first one.) 3.
When I pack my backpack, I repeatedly zip and unzip it until I feel satisfied.
These examples are just a few, and there are many more, and it is becoming increasingly severe.
It is truly painful to do things I don't want to do! I hope the doctor can answer my questions and help me find a solution.
Thank you!

CKcheung, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/22

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, the situation you described may be related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
You can try setting limits for yourself, such as washing your hands once every hour, limiting each handwashing to 20 seconds, and zipping your zipper only twice before moving on to the next task.
You may experience some strange and unsettling thoughts; try not to pay attention to them.
As time passes, your anxiety will naturally decrease.
It is also helpful to redirect your focus to things that you find important and interesting, which can make it easier to avoid these thoughts.
If you continue to feel troubled, seeking medical assistance may be beneficial.

Reply Date: 2017/04/22

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some distressing symptoms that may be related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that an individual feels driven to perform in response to the obsessions. Your experiences of excessive hand washing, repeatedly cleaning your glasses, and compulsively zipping and unzipping your backpack are classic examples of compulsive behaviors that many individuals with OCD may exhibit.

Signs and Symptoms of OCD
1. Obsessions: These are intrusive thoughts that cause significant anxiety or distress. In your case, the fear that something bad will happen if you don't perform certain actions (like washing your hands or cleaning your glasses) is a common obsession in OCD.

2. Compulsions: These are the behaviors you feel compelled to perform in order to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions. For instance, washing your hands repeatedly or cleaning your glasses excessively are compulsive behaviors aimed at alleviating the anxiety associated with your obsessive thoughts.

3. Time Consumption: OCD can take up a significant amount of time, often interfering with daily activities, schoolwork, and social interactions. If you find that these compulsions are taking up a considerable part of your day, it may be time to seek help.

4. Distress: The behaviors are often recognized by the individual as excessive or unreasonable, yet they feel unable to control them. This can lead to feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and isolation.

Solutions and Coping Strategies
1. Seek Professional Help: The most effective treatment for OCD typically involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly a subtype called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medication. A mental health professional can help you understand your symptoms better and develop a tailored treatment plan.

2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the case of OCD, CBT can help you confront your fears and gradually reduce the compulsive behaviors.

3. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): This is a specific form of CBT that involves gradual exposure to the source of your anxiety (in your case, the situations that trigger your compulsions) while preventing the compulsive response. Over time, this can help reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions.

4. Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for OCD and can help reduce the symptoms. It's important to discuss any concerns about medication with a healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on the best options for you.

5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can also help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

6. Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can be incredibly beneficial. Support groups provide a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies.

7. Education: Learning more about OCD can empower you and help you understand that you are not alone in your struggles. Knowledge can also help reduce feelings of shame or embarrassment.

Conclusion
It's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many people with OCD have found relief through treatment, and you can too. If you haven't already, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can guide you through this process. You're not alone in this, and there are effective strategies and treatments available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Take care, and I wish you the best on your journey to feeling better!

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Managing Anxiety: A Guide for Students Facing OCD Symptoms

Hello, Doctor: (The content is quite long) I am a second-year high school student, and I have been experiencing symptoms for almost six months that feel like obsessive thoughts, but I'm not sure. My symptoms are as follows: PS: I know cheating is wrong, and I no longer do ...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Johnny, thank you for your question. It sounds like these symptoms have been troubling you for a long time. Often, the origins of obsessive-compulsive symptoms may stem from certain life events, but over time, more and more factors can influence you, leading to feelings of i...

Understanding OCD: A Student's Struggle and the Path to Healing

I am a ninth-grade student who has been struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) since elementary school (I am afraid of swallowing pen tips, so I constantly rinse my mouth). When I entered junior high, I began to worry about being pricked by needles or coming into con...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
It does sound like it could be obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which has caused significant disruptions in daily life. Some psychological treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication, can be effective for OCD. It is advisable to seek an appointment with a c...

Understanding OCD: The Impact of Perfectionism and Materialism on Students

I am currently a sophomore in high school. This issue has existed for a long time. Just now, I discovered online that there are people with symptoms very similar to mine, which made me realize how serious the problems caused by these symptoms can be. For me, the most immediate an...

Dr. Chen Zhicai reply Psychiatry
Dear Xu, Hello! Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a medical condition that requires pharmacological treatment; it cannot be resolved simply through conversation. OCD symptoms can indeed affect concentration and academic performance, but poor grades and lack of focus are no...

Understanding OCD Symptoms: Personal Experiences and Genetic Concerns

The situation began 18 years ago when I was in the second year of high school at Taichung First Senior High School. I remember that afternoon I was studying geography at school, but the class was so noisy that I couldn't concentrate. I decided to wait until I got home that e...

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry
Dear Dr. Wang Chong-Jen of the Tainan Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Executive Yuan Health Department: Hello, Based on the symptoms you described, it seems that your issues may be related to a personality that tends to be neurotic or overly perfectionistic. These traits ca...