OCD: Seeking Help and Finding Hope for Recovery

Q: OCD: Seeking Help and Finding Hope for Recovery

Hello Ah Wei： First of all, I want to say that you are really brave! You are willing to confront your discomfort and seek help. <br>It seems that you have many sudden thoughts that make you uncomfortable, which may be referred to as "obsessive thoughts." If a doctor diagnoses you

What is going on?

I would like to share my experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with the doctor.
During my first year of junior high, at a Mid-Autumn Festival barbecue, I saw an advertisement for suicide prevention.
At that moment, I felt short of breath, had racing thoughts, and felt like there was something in my throat and a weight on my chest, with the only thought in my mind being "suicide." I thought it would pass quickly, but it only got worse (at that time, I didn't know why I was afraid to tell my parents).
I only searched for information online.
Every time I went to the kitchen and saw a knife, I felt an urge to touch it, and I would automatically pick it up with my hand, fortunately without causing any injuries.
I also felt a strong urge to drink alcohol, which almost led me to end my life (meaning I constantly felt chest tightness and discomfort, wanting to escape the pain).
By the end of June this year, I couldn't take it anymore and mustered the courage to tell my parents.
Initially, I was afraid of medication dependence, so I didn't seek help from a doctor.
However, by August, my condition worsened to the point where I finally saw a doctor.
After two consultations, I was diagnosed with "OCD." I am currently undergoing a combination of Western and traditional Chinese medicine treatments, and I have also visited a temple.
I feel uncomfortable all day and want to escape the pain.
But it feels like my brain is telling me that I am in so much pain and fear, urging me to leave! I also noticed that I used to experience shortness of breath and chest tightness (but it happened only once a year and would pass in a day).
Since the Mid-Autumn Festival, it has become a daily occurrence, along with suicidal thoughts.
I am unsure if the doctor's diagnosis of OCD is correct.
Could you please tell me what you think my condition is, whether it can be cured, if it will relapse, and what methods are available? I want to live.

Awei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/05

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Ah Wei: First of all, I want to say that you are really brave! You are willing to confront your discomfort and seek help.
It seems that you have many sudden thoughts that make you uncomfortable, which may be referred to as "obsessive thoughts." If a doctor diagnoses you with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), they will likely prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant for you.
If your discomfort is still severe at this time, I recommend discussing with your doctor whether a medication adjustment is necessary.
Additionally, psychological therapy is also very important for you; you can ask your doctor for a referral to a therapist.
OCD can improve with treatment, with 60-80% of individuals experiencing significant improvement, while 20-40% may still have noticeable symptoms, and a small number may achieve complete recovery.
Relapses are often associated with psychological stress or interruptions in treatment.
I suggest that you cooperate well with both medication and psychological therapy, as these discomforts can significantly improve! Wishing you peace and health.

Reply Date: 2022/09/05

More Info

It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to share your experiences and seek help. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatment and support, many individuals find relief from their symptoms and can lead fulfilling lives.

OCD is characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform in response to the obsessions. Your experiences of intrusive thoughts about self-harm and the compulsive behaviors you described, such as feeling compelled to touch knives or drink alcohol, are common among those with OCD. It's important to understand that these thoughts do not reflect your true desires or intentions; they are symptoms of the disorder.

The fact that you have reached out to your parents and sought medical help is a significant step toward recovery. It’s common for individuals with OCD to fear the stigma associated with mental health issues, which can make it difficult to talk about their feelings and experiences. However, opening up to your family and healthcare providers is crucial for receiving the support you need.

In terms of treatment, a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medication can be very effective for OCD. CBT helps you confront your fears and gradually reduce the anxiety associated with your obsessions, while ERP encourages you to resist the compulsive behaviors that follow. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also help manage symptoms by balancing chemicals in the brain.

It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any side effects you may experience from medications. If you feel that your current treatment plan is not effective, don't hesitate to discuss this with your doctor. They may adjust your medication or suggest additional therapeutic options.

Regarding your concerns about the future, it's important to recognize that while OCD can be a chronic condition, many people experience significant improvement with treatment. Relapses can occur, but having a solid support system and coping strategies in place can help you manage these challenges when they arise. Engaging in regular therapy, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to long-term recovery.

You mentioned feeling overwhelmed and in pain, which is understandable given the nature of OCD. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care and find healthy outlets for your emotions. Activities such as exercise, journaling, or engaging in hobbies can provide relief and help you reconnect with what brings you joy.

Lastly, I encourage you to seek support groups or online communities where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with peers can be incredibly validating and empowering.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there is hope for recovery. With the right support and treatment, you can learn to manage your OCD and live a fulfilling life. Please continue to reach out for help and take care of yourself.

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