Overcoming OCD-Like Symptoms: Can Self-Help Lead to Recovery?

Q: Overcoming OCD-Like Symptoms: Can Self-Help Lead to Recovery?

Hello Mr. <br>Li： The symptoms you described could indeed be indicative of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). <br>The principle of non-pharmacological treatment for OCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves resisting these irrational thoughts and behaviors, whil

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

I am a senior high school student, and I have been experiencing symptoms similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) since I was in the ninth grade.
Before going to bed at night, I would check items in my home by following a specific order and silently reciting certain numbers.
Initially, I was worried about accidents happening, but later it became a ritual that I felt would help me fall asleep faster rather than just lying in bed thinking about it.
Recently, in the past month or two, the symptoms have become more severe.
I must tightly ball up the trash and recite specific numbers before I can throw it away, and when I see a line of text while walking or studying, if I don't read it clearly, I have to repeat it a specific number of times.

I have managed to control the symptom of checking items at home through willpower, and there are signs of improvement (though it seems I can't completely eliminate it).
However, I cannot seem to control the reading-related symptom; as soon as I see text, I can't forget about it.
I have not received any medical treatment, yet I can self-manage some of the symptoms.
The reading issue is the most troubling for me because, previously, I would only think about my OCD symptoms at night when I was trying to sleep.
During the day, I felt fine, with only slight annoyance during my nighttime checks.
However, since the reading problem arose, I find myself constantly thinking about it even during the day, which makes me very distressed.

Do I need to see a doctor for my OCD to improve? Is it possible to heal on my own? Thank you for your advice, doctor.

Mr. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/24

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello Mr.
Li: The symptoms you described could indeed be indicative of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
The principle of non-pharmacological treatment for OCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves resisting these irrational thoughts and behaviors, while also redirecting attention to other more important and engaging activities.
It is important to convince oneself that not complying with these rituals will not harm anyone.
When symptoms are significant and affect personal functioning, medication treatment is often necessary in addition to therapy.
If the symptoms continue to be distressing, it is advisable to seek medical assistance.
Wishing you the best.

Reply Date: 2017/09/24

More Info

Overcoming OCD-like symptoms can be a challenging journey, especially for a high school student like yourself. It's commendable that you are seeking to understand your condition and looking for ways to manage it. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Your experiences, such as needing to check items in a specific order or repeating actions until they feel "just right," are common manifestations of OCD.

While self-help strategies can be beneficial, they are often not sufficient for complete recovery, especially in cases where symptoms are significantly impacting daily life. Here are some insights into managing OCD-like symptoms and the importance of professional help:
1. Understanding OCD: Recognizing that OCD is a mental health condition can help you understand that your symptoms are not a reflection of your character or willpower. They are part of a disorder that can be treated.

2. Self-Help Strategies: You mentioned that you have been able to control some symptoms through willpower, which is a positive sign. Techniques such as mindfulness, journaling, and gradual exposure to your fears can help reduce anxiety. For example, you might try to gradually reduce the number of times you repeat a reading or checking behavior, which can help desensitize you to the anxiety associated with it.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is a highly effective treatment for OCD. CBT focuses on changing the thought patterns that contribute to compulsive behaviors. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific type of CBT, involves gradually exposing yourself to the source of your anxiety and learning to refrain from the compulsive response. While self-help can provide some relief, working with a therapist trained in CBT can offer structured support and strategies tailored to your needs.

4. Medication: In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can be effective in reducing OCD symptoms. If your symptoms are severe and persistent, consulting a healthcare professional about medication options might be beneficial.

5. Support Systems: Engaging with support groups or online communities can provide you with additional resources and a sense of connection with others who understand what you're going through. Sharing your experiences can also help alleviate feelings of isolation.

6. Professional Help: While self-help can lead to improvements, it is essential to recognize when professional help is needed. If your symptoms are worsening or significantly affecting your daily life, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and develop a treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

7. Patience and Persistence: Recovery from OCD is often not linear. There may be ups and downs, and it can take time to find the right combination of strategies that work for you. Being patient with yourself and persistent in seeking help is vital.

In conclusion, while self-help strategies can be effective in managing OCD-like symptoms, they are often most beneficial when combined with professional treatment. If your symptoms are causing significant distress or impairment, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide you with the tools and support needed to navigate your journey toward recovery. Remember, you are not alone in this, and help is available.

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