Anxiety and OCD: When to Seek Professional Help

Anxiety Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Hello, I am a 19-year-old college student.
I have a few questions to ask you:
1.
I have a habit of checking doors and windows before going to bed, but this only happens when I sleep in my own room; I don't do it when I'm elsewhere.
However, the checking can last for several minutes, and if I encounter even a small issue, I have to start over.
There have been times when I checked for about an hour, feeling exhausted and wanting to sleep, but I couldn't be satisfied.
I have tried to stop myself, but it makes me uncomfortable, and I ultimately go back to complete the action to feel at ease before I can sleep.
Additionally, when I plug in my phone charger, if it doesn't fit perfectly, I will redo it until it is just right.
Recently, even when setting my alarm, I frequently check to ensure the volume is on and that the action goes smoothly, and I won't stop until I'm satisfied (which can take several minutes).
2.
After turning 18, I became aware of the responsibilities I have, including legal ones.
Previously, I didn't interact much with others during a year of retaking exams and didn't have these concerns.
However, since starting college this year, I have begun to worry about "What did I just say? What did I post?" and whether others might sue me.
These worries can last for several days or even weeks, and when they subside, they are often replaced by similar concerns.
I even get so anxious that I wish I were dead to escape these troubles.
I have tried to convince myself not to think this way, as it seems exaggerated, but those thoughts still intrude uncontrollably, and I am becoming increasingly frustrated with myself.
Last year, I had a minor collision while riding a motorcycle, and now the fear of being sued has made me somewhat afraid to ride.
I try to avoid riding whenever possible, simply out of fear of an accident.
Am I just overly sensitive, or do I need professional help?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/09

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hi there! Your situation resembles the symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which includes obsessive thoughts (recurrent thoughts or impulses that are unwanted and distressing, which you may want to ignore or suppress) and compulsive behaviors (repetitive actions performed in response to obsessive thoughts or to adhere to strict rules, which can alleviate anxiety after performing them).
However, before making a diagnosis of OCD, it is important to consider whether these symptoms may be caused by other medical conditions, mental disorders, or substances (such as medications).
Therefore, it is still recommended that you seek evaluation from a psychiatrist, who can conduct a thorough assessment in person to understand the underlying causes and develop a plan for improvement.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2021/01/09

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns. It sounds like you are experiencing significant anxiety and compulsive behaviors that may be indicative of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Let’s break down your questions and concerns.

1. Compulsive Checking Behaviors: The behaviors you describe, such as repeatedly checking doors and windows or ensuring that your phone is charging correctly, are common in OCD. These compulsions often stem from intrusive thoughts that create anxiety, leading you to perform specific actions to alleviate that anxiety. The fact that you feel compelled to check things multiple times, even to the point of exhaustion, suggests that these behaviors are not just habits but rather compulsions that are difficult to control.
2. Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety: Your worries about what you say or post, and the fear of being legally responsible for your actions, are also signs of anxiety. It’s common for individuals with anxiety disorders to ruminate over past interactions, fearing negative consequences. The thoughts of wishing to escape these feelings, even to the point of wishing for death, are serious and should not be taken lightly. It’s crucial to address these feelings, as they can indicate a deeper level of distress.

3. When to Seek Professional Help: Given the intensity and persistence of your symptoms, it would be beneficial to seek professional help. While it’s normal to feel anxious about responsibilities and social interactions, the level of distress you are experiencing—especially the compulsive checking and the intrusive thoughts—suggests that these issues are impacting your quality of life. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and help you develop coping strategies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for OCD and anxiety disorders, as it helps individuals challenge and change their thought patterns and behaviors.

4. Understanding OCD and Anxiety: OCD is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, can manifest in various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder. Both conditions can coexist, and it’s not uncommon for someone with OCD to also experience heightened anxiety about various aspects of life.

5. Self-Help Strategies: While seeking professional help is essential, there are also self-help strategies you can implement. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and practicing self-compassion can also be beneficial. Journaling your thoughts may help you process your feelings and reduce the intensity of your worries.

In conclusion, your experiences are valid, and seeking help is a strong and positive step. You deserve support to navigate these challenges and improve your mental health. Please consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can guide you through this process. Remember, you are not alone, and there are effective treatments available that can help you regain control over your thoughts and behaviors.

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