Feeling Dirty: OCD and Anxiety in Mental Health

Q: Feeling Dirty: OCD and Anxiety in Mental Health

Hello, little fish： If you find yourself washing for an extended period of time despite knowing it’s unnecessary, and you experience a reduction in anxiety afterward, it is very likely that you may be dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). <br>However, a definitive dia

Feeling very dirty?

Dr.
Lin: Thank you for your patient response to my questions; I really appreciate it.
Additionally, I would like to ask if feeling excessively dirty all the time indicates a mental health issue.
Is this meaningless cleaning a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder or anxiety disorder? Would seeing a psychiatrist really help me? I have been under a lot of pressure since being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, and I have become quite nihilistic.
I want to see a mental health professional, but I’ve heard that if a mental health issue is diagnosed, many insurance companies will deny coverage.
I am also considering purchasing some insurance, which is why I have delayed seeing a doctor.
However, I am really struggling to cope.
Are there any other ways to help me? I feel so helpless.
😭😭😭 Thank you again, Dr.
Lin.

Xiao Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/07

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello, little fish: If you find yourself washing for an extended period of time despite knowing it’s unnecessary, and you experience a reduction in anxiety afterward, it is very likely that you may be dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
However, a definitive diagnosis can only be made after a face-to-face consultation with a physician.
If you are concerned about insurance issues, it would be wise to review the insurance policy you are considering to see if it requires disclosure of any "mental disorders" or "neurotic disorders."
Mental disorders include both "neurotic disorders" and "psychotic disorders." OCD, depression, and anxiety disorders fall under "neurotic disorders," while schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and delusional disorder are classified as "psychotic disorders." If the insurance application requires disclosure of "mental disorders" or "neurotic disorders," then OCD or anxiety disorders would need to be reported to the insurance company.
However, if the application only requires disclosure of "psychotic disorders," then you would not need to inform the insurance company about OCD or anxiety disorders, as they are classified as "neurotic disorders" rather than "psychotic disorders."
Additionally, insurance policies typically have a waiting period, meaning that any conditions diagnosed after one month of coverage will be eligible for claims.
If you seek medical attention, you should be mindful of this.
In summary, if your insurance application requires disclosure of "mental disorders" or "neurotic disorders," you would need to secure the insurance first and wait for the waiting period to pass before seeking treatment.
However, if the application only requires disclosure of "psychotic disorders," you can seek medical attention as needed without informing the insurance company.

Nonetheless, if your situation is truly unbearable or if you have thoughts of self-harm, it is advisable to seek medical help promptly to prevent worsening conditions.
Wishing you peace and joy.

Reply Date: 2021/01/07

More Info

Feeling dirty or having an overwhelming need to clean can indeed be indicative of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or anxiety-related issues. OCD is characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing the anxiety caused by those thoughts. In your case, the feeling of being "dirty" and the compulsion to clean excessively could be a manifestation of these obsessions and compulsions.

It's important to understand that these feelings are not just a matter of personal hygiene; they can be deeply rooted in psychological distress. The pressure you mentioned, stemming from a past experience with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), can exacerbate feelings of shame and anxiety, leading to compulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism. This cycle can become overwhelming and may contribute to feelings of hopelessness or despair, which you are currently experiencing.

Seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for OCD and anxiety disorders. It helps individuals challenge and change unhelpful cognitive distortions and behaviors, ultimately reducing the compulsive need to engage in cleaning rituals.

Regarding your concerns about insurance and the stigma associated with mental health diagnoses, it's understandable to feel apprehensive. However, prioritizing your mental health is crucial. Many insurance plans have provisions for mental health treatment, and there are also options for therapy that do not require a formal diagnosis. You might consider seeking out community mental health services, support groups, or online therapy options, which can provide support without the same level of scrutiny as traditional healthcare settings.

In addition to professional help, there are self-care strategies you can implement to manage your anxiety and feelings of dirtiness. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, can help ground you and reduce anxiety levels. Engaging in physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring you get enough sleep are also essential for mental well-being.

It's also beneficial to talk about your feelings with someone you trust, whether it's a friend, family member, or a support group. Sharing your experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide you with additional coping strategies.

In summary, while your feelings of being "dirty" and the compulsive need to clean may be symptoms of OCD or anxiety, seeking professional help is a vital step towards understanding and managing these feelings. Don't let the fear of insurance issues prevent you from getting the help you need. Your mental health is paramount, and there are resources available to support you through this challenging time. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people and professionals who can help you navigate these feelings and find a path toward healing.

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