Can OCD Symptoms Improve Without Professional Help?

Is it possible for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to improve on its own?

During high school, I often felt anxious and worried about unreasonable things, such as: 1.
If I lightly bumped into someone, I would be extremely worried and sneak back to check if they were okay, always thinking that I must have seriously injured them.
2.
After eating a raw egg, I couldn't help but feel that I must have contracted avian influenza.
3.
I worried that if my classmates were sad, they might consider suicide, or if I expressed my true feelings to my mom, she would definitely go and commit suicide...
Additionally, I would feel very scared when I saw a knife, fearing that I might harm someone, or suddenly become afraid that I might push someone down the stairs.
When I discovered online that these thoughts were called obsessive thoughts, I realized that I had some strange issues when I was younger.
1.
There was a voice in my head constantly giving me tasks, and if I didn't complete them, my parents would die (for example, when crossing the street, I couldn't step on the black parts, I had to cross before the little green man started blinking, and I had to act as if nothing was wrong and not run).
2.
When I saw a funeral on the street, I had to control myself; otherwise, I would keep saying curse words or insults in my mind, or I would be very afraid of blaspheming.
But these things happened when I was quite young.
Is it possible to develop such issues at such an early age (in elementary school)? I have always constrained myself to be a good person and not to harm others.
Could this be the reason why I am so afraid of hurting everyone? I have an aunt who seems to have a mental condition, and my mom and her family also seem to be emotionally unstable.
Could this be a hereditary issue? Fortunately, I have a boyfriend who has been with me for three years.
Whenever I feel anxious about something, he patiently reassures me that everything is fine.
Recently, most of the above symptoms have almost disappeared.
Is it possible for obsessive-compulsive disorder to resolve without seeing a doctor? However, recently, I have been easily plagued by unwanted images that repeatedly come to my mind.
Each time they appear, I feel uncomfortable.
Those images are fragments of moments where I feel I didn't do well or I regret something.
Could this also be a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder? In recent years, I have also become very easily saddened by others, usually when I see people on the street, like children who are blind or sick individuals.
I wonder why people like me, who feel worthless, are not the ones suffering.
I even feel so sad that it becomes painful.
What can I do for myself? I'm sorry for bothering the doctor with so much...

Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/17

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The symptoms you mentioned from elementary school to high school do resemble obsessive thoughts.
However, many psychiatric disorders, other medical conditions, or certain medications and substances can also cause similar symptoms.
Therefore, it is necessary to discuss this in detail with a physician during an outpatient visit for confirmation.
Mild obsessive symptoms may resolve on their own.
Additionally, many psychiatric disorders have some genetic associations; if there are individuals in your family with such conditions, your likelihood of developing similar disorders may be higher than that of the general population.
However, this also depends on the specific disorders your relatives have, as the heritability rates vary among different conditions.
As for the symptoms you have recently experienced, they may be related to ruminative thinking that occurs during depressive episodes, where one continuously recalls negative thoughts.
I recommend seeking help from a psychiatrist to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms and to establish an appropriate treatment plan.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2018/07/17

More Info

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform. Your description of various anxiety-provoking thoughts and compulsive behaviors aligns with common symptoms of OCD. It’s important to understand that while some individuals may experience a reduction in symptoms over time, professional help is often crucial for effective management and improvement.

Can OCD Symptoms Improve Without Professional Help?
While it is possible for some individuals to experience a natural reduction in OCD symptoms, relying solely on this possibility is not advisable. Many factors influence the course of OCD, including individual resilience, coping mechanisms, and environmental support. In your case, you mentioned that symptoms have decreased recently, possibly aided by the support of your boyfriend. This kind of social support can be beneficial, but it does not replace the structured treatment that a mental health professional can provide.

The Role of Professional Help
Professional treatment for OCD typically includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly a subtype called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). This therapy helps individuals confront their fears and reduce compulsive behaviors. Additionally, medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be effective in managing symptoms. Without professional intervention, individuals may find it challenging to develop effective coping strategies or to understand the underlying mechanisms of their anxiety and compulsions.

Understanding Your Symptoms
Your experiences with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors from a young age suggest that you may have been dealing with OCD for a significant period. The fears you described, such as worrying about harming others or feeling responsible for the well-being of loved ones, are common in OCD. The fact that you have a family history of mental health issues could indicate a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders, including OCD.

The intrusive thoughts you mentioned, such as feeling responsible for others' safety or experiencing distressing images, are also characteristic of OCD. These thoughts can be distressing and may lead to compulsive behaviors aimed at alleviating the anxiety they cause. It’s essential to recognize that these thoughts do not reflect your true desires or intentions; they are symptoms of the disorder.

Coping Strategies and Self-Care
While seeking professional help is crucial, there are self-care strategies you can implement to help manage your symptoms:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being.

2. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet for your emotions and help you process your experiences.

3. Limit Exposure to Triggers: If certain situations or stimuli exacerbate your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to them when possible.

4. Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Finding joy in hobbies or interests can provide a distraction from intrusive thoughts and improve your mood.

5. Educate Yourself: Understanding OCD can empower you and reduce feelings of isolation. Resources such as books, support groups, and reputable websites can provide valuable information.

Conclusion
In summary, while some individuals may experience a decrease in OCD symptoms without professional help, it is generally not a reliable or sustainable approach. Professional treatment, including therapy and possibly medication, is often necessary for significant improvement. Your experiences and concerns are valid, and seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the tools and support needed to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate your experiences with OCD.

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