Is This Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior? Seeking Help for Compulsive Questions

Q: Is This Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior? Seeking Help for Compulsive Questions

Hello： First, thank you for your letter. <br>Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often experience recurring thoughts or behaviors that cause significant distress. <br>Treatment primarily involves a combination of medication and individual psychotherapy. <br>It is ad

Is this obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Hello Doctor, one day when my dad drove to see me, I waved goodbye to him from outside the car.
At that moment, I noticed four people sitting outside a neighbor's house about 50 meters away, chatting and facing us.
I thought they must have seen me waving to my dad, but I still wanted to ask them directly if they noticed it too.
Although I wasn't familiar with them and knew they might think I was strange for asking, I couldn't help but inquire; otherwise, I would keep thinking about it.
Thirty minutes later, when I went to ask, they had all left, so I only asked two of them, and I was able to let it go.
However, similar situations keep happening, and it causes me a lot of distress because I know it's irrational, yet I can't stop myself from asking.

About ten years ago, I experienced a similar situation that was quite severe, but taking half a dose of Lexapro and one dose of Ritalin helped me manage it.
Although I still ask questions, I mostly direct them to family, which reduces my stress.
Later, I took one dose of Lexapro until I stopped two months ago, but my condition worsened.
I started taking two doses of Lexapro, but things got even worse, making me feel like life was unbearable.
So, I switched to two doses of Prozac, but when the urge to ask arises, I still feel compelled to do so.
My mood has improved a bit, but I would like to ask you how I can change this bad habit of needing to ask others.
Does obsessive-compulsive disorder lead to asking strangers? I am really scared of myself, and I don't want to harm others.
I don't know what to do.
Please help me, Doctor.
I am truly grateful and sorry for causing you trouble.
Thank you.

Nickname, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/20

Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry

Hello: First, thank you for your letter.
Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often experience recurring thoughts or behaviors that cause significant distress.
Treatment primarily involves a combination of medication and individual psychotherapy.
It is advisable to discuss appropriate medications and treatment options with your physician.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2022/10/20

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant distress related to compulsive questioning and a need for reassurance, which can indeed be indicative of obsessive-compulsive behavior. Your situation is not uncommon, and many individuals struggle with similar compulsions that can interfere with daily life and relationships.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing the anxiety associated with those thoughts. In your case, the need to ask others for confirmation about your perceptions or feelings—despite knowing that it might be perceived as strange—can be seen as a compulsion to alleviate the anxiety caused by your obsessive thoughts. This cycle can be exhausting and can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness, as you have described.

It's important to recognize that seeking reassurance from others is a common compulsion among those with OCD. While it may provide temporary relief, it often reinforces the cycle of anxiety and compulsion, making the problem worse in the long run. The fact that you have previously found some relief with medication suggests that a combined approach of therapy and medication might be beneficial for you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is one of the most effective treatments for OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing yourself to the situations that trigger your compulsive questioning while refraining from performing the compulsion (in this case, asking for reassurance). Over time, this can help reduce the anxiety associated with the intrusive thoughts and break the cycle of compulsion.

In addition to therapy, it may be worth discussing your current medication regimen with a psychiatrist. It seems that your previous medication (Luvox) helped to some extent, but since you have recently stopped taking it and switched to a different medication (Paxil), it may take some time to find the right balance. Each individual responds differently to medications, and it may require some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Here are some strategies you can consider to help manage your compulsive questioning:
1. Self-Reflection: Keep a journal to track your thoughts and feelings when you feel the urge to ask others for reassurance. This can help you identify triggers and patterns in your behavior.

2. Mindfulness Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without immediately reacting to them. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises can help you manage anxiety in the moment.

3. Gradual Exposure: Start by challenging yourself to refrain from asking for reassurance in low-stakes situations. Gradually increase the difficulty as you become more comfortable.

4. Support System: Share your struggles with trusted friends or family members who can provide support and understanding. They can help you stay accountable as you work to reduce your compulsive questioning.

5. Professional Help: If you haven't already, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who specializes in OCD. They can provide tailored strategies and support to help you navigate your challenges.

Remember, you are not alone in this struggle, and seeking help is a courageous step towards improvement. It may take time and effort, but with the right support and strategies, you can work towards reducing the impact of these compulsive behaviors on your life.

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