OCD: Signs, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies

Q: OCD: Signs, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies

Hello Mr. <br>Lin： Based on your situation, it has not yet reached the level of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but it does exhibit symptoms similar to OCD. <br>Therefore, you can apply treatment methods used for OCD to address it. <br>For obsessive symptoms, a non-pharmacol

Is it obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Hello Doctor, five years ago I worked as a street cleaner, and I was often reported for not cleaning the streets properly.
My supervisor would constantly ask me to go back and clean again for inspection, which caused me a lot of stress.
After six months, I left that job.

1.
I noticed that after parking my motorcycle, I repeatedly check if the gas cap is closed properly, pressing it multiple times.
This behavior lasted for a while, but now I only check it once after refueling and don’t repeat the behavior.

2.
After taking a shower, I would also check if the showerhead was leaking, but currently, I no longer repeatedly press the gas cap or check the showerhead and faucet for leaks.

Now, I find myself checking my wallet or important documents when I take them out, and I also look around to see if I’ve dropped anything, but I only check once before leaving the area.
At work, after locking up my toolbox, I search the ground to see if I’ve dropped any tools.
I used to be afraid of touching things that felt dirty.

This past week, I’ve been wondering if I might have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and I even think about this issue while riding my motorcycle.
Doctor, do you have any suggestions on how I can stop thinking about this problem?

Lin Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/06

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Mr.
Lin: Based on your situation, it has not yet reached the level of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but it does exhibit symptoms similar to OCD.
Therefore, you can apply treatment methods used for OCD to address it.
For obsessive symptoms, a non-pharmacological treatment approach is "exposure and response prevention." This means that when you find yourself in situations that trigger anxiety and the urge to repeatedly check (i.e., "exposure"), you should refrain from performing the compulsive behavior (i.e., "response").
Initially, you will likely feel very anxious, but with practice, that anxiety will gradually decrease, and you will realize that you can feel psychologically stable without needing to check repeatedly.

Additionally, it is important to address the cognitive aspect by reminding yourself that the urge to check repeatedly is due to an overly sensitive alarm system in your brain, which triggers a warning at the slightest disturbance, even though no actual danger is present.
When your thoughts are consumed by the urge to check, engaging in activities that divert your attention can also help prevent you from getting stuck in those thoughts.
Finally, if these issues persist without improvement, it is advisable to seek professional help to identify the root cause and restore a normal life.
Wishing you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2020/06/06

More Info

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is crucial for recognizing its signs, symptoms, and effective coping strategies. OCD is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform. Your experiences, such as checking the fuel cap and inspecting the showerhead, are common manifestations of OCD.

Signs and Symptoms of OCD
1. Obsessions: These are intrusive thoughts that cause significant anxiety or distress. In your case, the fear of not properly securing the fuel cap or ensuring that the showerhead is not leaking can be seen as obsessive thoughts.

2. Compulsions: These are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels compelled to perform in response to an obsession, aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared event. Your actions of repeatedly checking the fuel cap and inspecting the showerhead are compulsive behaviors.

3. Avoidance: Individuals with OCD may avoid situations that trigger their obsessions. For example, you might avoid riding your motorcycle if it leads to excessive checking.

4. Time-consuming: The obsessions and compulsions can take up a significant amount of time, often more than an hour a day, which can interfere with daily functioning.

Coping Strategies
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is one of the most effective treatments for OCD. CBT, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), involves gradually exposing yourself to the source of your anxiety (like the thought of not checking the fuel cap) and learning to resist the compulsion to check. Over time, this can help reduce the anxiety associated with the obsession.

2. 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, or yoga can help reduce overall anxiety levels.

3. Limit Checking Behaviors: Since you mentioned that you have already reduced the frequency of your checking behaviors, continue to set limits for yourself. For instance, if you check the fuel cap once, try to resist the urge to check it again. Gradually increase the time between checks.

4. Journaling: Keeping a journal of your thoughts and feelings can help you identify triggers and patterns in your OCD. This can also serve as a way to express your feelings and reduce anxiety.

5. Support Groups: Connecting with others who have OCD can provide a sense of community and understanding. Online forums or local support groups can be beneficial.

6. Professional Help: If your symptoms are significantly impacting your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide tailored strategies and, if necessary, discuss medication options that may help manage your symptoms.

Conclusion
It’s important to remember that OCD is a treatable condition. The fact that you are aware of your behaviors and are seeking to understand them is a positive step. While it may take time and effort, implementing these strategies can help you manage your symptoms and reduce the impact of OCD on your life. If you find that your thoughts and behaviors are becoming overwhelming, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for support.

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