OCD: Symptoms, Causes, and Ways to Cope with Anxiety

Please consult a doctor?

Hello Doctor, I am not quite sure when I started feeling this way.
I used to be a person with obsessive cleanliness, wanting everything to be clean and tidy, and I would clean my room every day.
However, for some unknown reason, I began to feel very anxious and worried.
For example, I wash my hands multiple times, thinking that it will make them clean, and I continue to wash them even when my skin becomes dry and cracked.
Sometimes I feel conflicted because I know this is excessive, but at the same time, I feel very uncomfortable and anxious if I don't wash my hands, and I hesitate to touch other things.
It seems like my world cannot accept dirt and germs.
I don't find small animals cute; instead, I only think about whether they carry diseases or are dirty.
Sometimes when something falls on the floor, I feel fearful about picking it up.
I always know that this behavior is not right, and this conflict and discomfort have made me feel that life is very difficult, preventing me from concentrating on other things.
For instance, using public restrooms makes me very anxious because I feel they are not clean, so I tend to find alternative ways to relieve myself.
Others perceive me as odd, and I have no way to explain it because I am completely at a loss.
Sometimes I feel a lot of psychological pressure.
There are many similar situations where I repeat the same actions or check things multiple times.
Doctor, could this be obsessive-compulsive disorder? How can I improve? What might be the cause of my condition? Or could this not be OCD? Recently, I have experienced significant life changes, and the shadows and sadness linger, making me feel low and upset when I think about them.
I have even had thoughts of giving up, although I have managed to get through each day.
It seems that the more unstable I feel in my environment or mentally, the more I repeat the same actions.
Thank you for your help, Doctor.
🙏

Kk, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/13

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

It is very likely that the internet user has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and seeking medical treatment is necessary for improvement.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2023/01/13

More Info

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is crucial for recognizing its symptoms, causes, and effective coping strategies. Based on your description, it appears that you may be experiencing symptoms consistent with OCD, particularly in the realm of compulsive behaviors related to cleanliness and an overwhelming fear of contamination.

Symptoms of OCD
OCD is characterized by two main components: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts that cause significant anxiety, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to those obsessions. In your case, the compulsive hand-washing and the need to keep your environment excessively clean are clear indicators of this disorder. The distress you feel when you perceive something as dirty or contaminated, along with the repetitive checking and cleaning behaviors, aligns with common OCD symptoms.

Causes of OCD
The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioral, and environmental factors. A family history of OCD or other anxiety disorders can increase the likelihood of developing OCD. Additionally, significant life changes or traumatic events, such as the "sudden life changes" you mentioned, can trigger or exacerbate symptoms. The stress and anxiety from these experiences may lead to the development of compulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism.

Coping Strategies
1. Seek Professional Help: The first step in managing OCD is to consult a mental health professional. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is considered the most effective treatment for OCD. This therapy involves gradually exposing you to the sources of your anxiety while helping you refrain from engaging in compulsive behaviors.

2. Medication: In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can be prescribed to help manage OCD symptoms. These medications can help regulate the serotonin levels in the brain, which may alleviate some of the anxiety and compulsive behaviors.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can reduce anxiety and help you cope with the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors.

4. Support Groups: Connecting with others who experience similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice. Support groups can help you feel less isolated and more understood.

5. Education: Learning more about OCD can empower you to understand your symptoms better and reduce feelings of shame or confusion. Knowledge can help you recognize that you are not alone in your experiences.

6. Gradual Exposure: Start by gradually exposing yourself to situations that trigger your compulsions. For example, if you fear contamination from touching objects, try to touch something you perceive as "dirty" and resist the urge to wash your hands immediately. This can help desensitize you to the anxiety associated with these triggers.

Conclusion
It’s essential to acknowledge that OCD is a treatable condition. While it may feel overwhelming, especially when compounded by life changes and emotional distress, there are effective strategies and treatments available. By seeking professional help and employing coping strategies, you can work towards managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available to help you navigate through these challenges.

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