OCD: Coping Strategies and Treatment Options for Relief

Q: OCD: Coping Strategies and Treatment Options for Relief

Hello： It sounds like your condition may involve obsessive thoughts, combined with depression and psychosomatic symptoms. <br><br>1. <br>Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is typically treated with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has sho

I have some concerns?

I would like to share my experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with my doctor: During the Mid-Autumn Festival barbecue in the year I just entered junior high, I saw a suicide prevention advertisement on the charcoal grill.
At that moment, I felt breathless, my mind was racing, and I felt like there was something in my throat and a weight on my chest, with only the thought of "suicide" in my mind.
I thought it would pass quickly, but it only got worse (I didn't know why I was afraid to tell my parents at the time).
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, but fortunately, I didn't get hurt.
I also felt an urge to drink alcohol whenever I saw it, and I almost ended 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 had worsened to the point that I finally saw a doctor, and after two consultations, I was diagnosed with "OCD." I am currently undergoing a combination of Western and traditional Chinese medicine treatment and have also visited a temple.
I feel uncomfortable all day and want to escape the pain.
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 would only happen about once a year and would pass in a day).
Since the Mid-Autumn Festival, it has become a daily occurrence, along with suicidal thoughts, and I feel like I'm struggling with myself out of fear.

1.
Can OCD be cured?
2.
The doctor has currently prescribed me medications called Jian De Jing and Jian Fu.
Are these specifically for OCD?
3.
Am I really experiencing OCD?
4.
What methods can help?
5.
How long will this last (I have been experiencing symptoms for over a year now)?
6.
Is it normal to feel fatigued in willpower?
7.
What should I do when I have suicidal thoughts and feel uncomfortable?

Awei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/25

Dr. Cai Qijin reply Psychiatry

Hello: It sounds like your condition may involve obsessive thoughts, combined with depression and psychosomatic symptoms.

1.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is typically treated with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has shown good efficacy, and most patients experience improvement.
It is important to note that there is a possibility of relapse after discontinuation of medication.
Medications need to be taken regularly for a period of time (4-8 weeks) before therapeutic effects are observed, so patience is required.

2.
The former refers to anxiolytics, while the latter involves medications that adjust serotonin levels, both of which are commonly used for OCD.
The latter also requires regular use over time to achieve effectiveness.

3.
It sounds like you are experiencing obsessive thoughts; I recommend discussing a potential diagnosis with your outpatient physician.

4.
The primary treatment approach involves medication combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy.
You may refer to the self-help manual for OCD, which outlines a four-step process: https://ilife.org.tw/%E5%BC%B7%E8%BF%AB%E7%97%87%E5%9B%9B%E6%AD%A5%E9%A9%9F%E7%9A%84%E8%87%AA%E6%88%91%E6%B2%BB%E7%99%82%E6%89%8B%E5%86%8A/
5.
Treatment response varies by individual, but typically improvement can be seen within 1-3 months under regular treatment.

6.
Constantly being in a state of obsessive thoughts can be exhausting.

7.
It is advisable to discuss with your physician about medications to be used "as needed," and you can also try to shift your focus to other activities.
If you find it difficult to distract yourself, seeking assistance from family members or returning to outpatient or emergency care may be beneficial.

Reply Date: 2022/10/25

More Info

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is crucial for anyone experiencing its symptoms, as it can significantly impact daily life and mental well-being. Your experience with OCD, particularly the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, is not uncommon. Many individuals with OCD struggle with similar feelings of anxiety and fear, often feeling trapped in a cycle of distressing thoughts and compulsive actions.

1. Will OCD Get Better?
OCD is a treatable condition. Many individuals experience significant improvement with appropriate treatment, which often includes a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), and medication. While some may find complete relief from symptoms, others may experience a reduction in severity, allowing them to manage their daily lives more effectively.

2. Are the Medications Prescribed for OCD?
The medications you mentioned, such as "健得靜" (likely a form of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI) and "健復" (possibly another antidepressant), are commonly prescribed for OCD. SSRIs are often the first-line treatment for OCD, as they can help reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

3. Do I Truly Have OCD?
Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing symptoms consistent with OCD. The presence of intrusive thoughts about self-harm and compulsive behaviors, such as the urge to touch a knife, aligns with the disorder's characteristics. However, a definitive diagnosis should be made by a qualified mental health professional who can evaluate your symptoms in detail.

4. What Strategies Can Help?
Several coping strategies can be beneficial for managing OCD:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Engaging in CBT, particularly ERP, can help you confront your fears in a controlled manner, gradually reducing anxiety associated with obsessive thoughts.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.

- Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical coping strategies.

5. How Long Will Symptoms Last?
The duration of OCD symptoms varies widely among individuals. Some may experience symptoms for a few months, while others may struggle for years. With effective treatment, many individuals see improvement within weeks to months, but ongoing management may be necessary.

6. Is It Normal to Feel Mentally Exhausted?
Yes, experiencing mental fatigue or "willpower fatigue" is common among individuals with OCD. The constant battle against intrusive thoughts can be draining. It's important to practice self-care and seek support from mental health professionals who can help you navigate these feelings.

7. What to Do When Having Suicidal Thoughts?
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek immediate help. Contact a mental health professional, call a crisis hotline, or go to the nearest emergency room. You are not alone, and there are people who want to help you through this difficult time. It’s essential to talk about these feelings with someone who can provide support and guidance.

In summary, while OCD can be a challenging condition, effective treatments are available. Engaging in therapy, adhering to prescribed medications, and utilizing coping strategies can lead to significant improvements. Remember, reaching out for help is a vital step in your journey toward recovery. You deserve support and relief from your suffering.

Similar Q&A

Managing Intrusive Thoughts in OCD: Effective Strategies for Relief

Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in my freshman year of college, including health anxiety, excessive cleaning, and intrusive thoughts (such as harming others and disturbing religious thoughts). After several years of self-adjus...

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to your health concerns, particularly with health anxiety and obsessive thinking. 1. Facing an uncertain future, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders are c...

Understanding and Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Treatment and Prognosis

Compulsive neurosis, also known as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), can be treated through various methods. The primary treatment options include: 1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is the most effective form of psychotherapy for OCD, particularly a specific typ...

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry
Although psychodynamic theories provide some explanations for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the current understanding primarily associates it with dysregulation of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin. The mainstream treatment remains pharmacotherapy, wit...

How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts in OCD: Effective Strategies

When experiencing obsessive thoughts, it can be challenging to manage or stop them, especially when they cause significant distress. Here are some strategies that may help: 1. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: Practice mindfulness exercises to bring your focus back to th...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Miss Lin: Obsessive thoughts can indeed be very bothersome, and it’s clear that you are struggling with them and trying hard to suppress them. However, when you attempt to suppress such thoughts, it often has the opposite effect. The more you focus on them, the greater thei...

Coping with Intrusive Thoughts in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

If a person suddenly experiences intrusive thoughts, such as saying disrespectful things about deities or the deceased, it can be distressing. It's important to understand that these thoughts are often a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and do not reflect one&#...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Miss Liao: Are you troubled by your racing thoughts, or are you worried that these thoughts might lead to negative outcomes? It can be challenging to stop these thoughts on your own, but when you notice yourself spiraling, try to redirect your attention to something else, ...