OCD: Common Concerns and Treatment Options

Q: OCD: Common Concerns and Treatment Options

Hello Leonjohn： In response to your questions：<br>1. <br>Psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, characterized by hallucinations and delusions) are distinctly different from neurotic disorders (such as depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsi

I hope the doctor can clarify my confusion?

Hello Doctor, I am considered quite intelligent by my friends and family.
I am 23 years old and a college student with good academic performance.
However, I have been struggling with a persistent issue that I cannot seem to understand.
Since childhood, I thought it was just a bad habit, but one day, after suffering from insomnia almost every night, I decided to see a doctor.
After explaining my predicament, the doctor suggested that I seek help from a psychologist.
I ended up going to a private counseling clinic, where I was suspected of having "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder" (OCD).
Due to the high cost of medication, which I cannot afford long-term, the doctor recommended that I go to a government hospital for treatment, where the fees are relatively low.
After accepting the doctor's advice, I returned home.
However, upon returning home, I became worried about the following questions:
1) When I go to the government hospital for treatment, will I be placed on a blacklist? Will people think I am mentally ill? Will my future be affected or completely ruined? What should I do?
2) Can I avoid providing personal information when registering?
3) If I do not get along with the doctor, can I switch to another one?
4) If I want to transfer to another facility during the treatment period, is that possible? If I fully recover, will the hospital still suspect or consider me a patient who could relapse and monitor my every move?
5) Will the hospital call or send letters to my home? If my family finds out about my condition, will they be sad or disappointed in me?
6) If my family finds out, what should I do? I do not want them to feel sad or disappointed.

7) What are the chances of recovering from "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder"? How long does it typically take to heal? I have been suffering from this condition for about 6 to 8 years; do I have a good chance of recovery?
8) Do those medications have side effects?
Some of these questions may not be appropriate to ask, but I truly hope the doctor can answer them, as they have been repeating in my mind.
Thank you.
My email address is: [email protected].
If you cannot see the writing, please use Chinese star or Nj star, thank you.

leonjohn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/06/08

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry

Hello Leonjohn: In response to your questions:
1.
Psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, characterized by hallucinations and delusions) are distinctly different from neurotic disorders (such as depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder).
According to current psychiatric practices, treating your obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is not particularly difficult, but it requires your patience and trust in the physician.
Since effective treatment is possible, why worry about being blacklisted or about the future? The real concern should be if you do not receive proper treatment while exhibiting clear symptoms.
2.
I am unsure how to answer this point.
Taiwan currently has a national health insurance system that covers treatment costs.
However, if you seek treatment from private practitioners, the high medical expenses (as OCD treatment often requires expensive medications and behavioral therapy) can be unaffordable for the average person.
3.
Treatment for mental disorders typically requires a significant amount of time, and a good doctor-patient relationship is a prerequisite.
You can certainly choose your physician, but it is best to communicate openly with them.
I believe your physician will recommend referrals to other specialists when necessary.
4.
It is beneficial to have a physician familiar with your issues monitor your treatment.
Frequently switching doctors is not helpful for your treatment.
Generally, healthcare facilities should not disturb a patient who has already recovered with unnecessary follow-ups, don’t you think?
5.
Since this symptom has been with you for so long, your family likely already knows about your issues, so why worry about them "knowing again"? Moreover, treatment for OCD often requires support from family members to achieve better outcomes.
Additionally, "keeping patient information confidential" is fundamental to the doctor-patient relationship, and I believe every psychiatrist can uphold this principle.
6.
Accepting treatment provides an opportunity for improvement, while refusing treatment offers no chance at all.
OCD is a distressing condition that requires prolonged treatment, and the changes in symptoms and treatment effectiveness can vary from person to person.
Generally, about 70-80% of cases can achieve good recovery.
However, since it is a mental disorder, it is naturally related to external pressures and psychological states, and relapse is possible.
In terms of medication, noticeable effects should be seen after about a month of consistent treatment.
7.
Modern medicine continues to advance, and the side effects of medications are decreasing.
The medications commonly used to treat OCD have low side effects, so you can feel reassured.
In summary, "it" has troubled you for many years, and I believe you have tried various self-treatment methods, but "it" still persists.
Are you willing to let a physician help you eliminate "it"? As long as you have patience and trust in your physician, I wish you well and believe that tomorrow will be better than today.

Reply Date: 2002/06/08

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns regarding your experience with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It's commendable that you are seeking help and trying to understand your condition better. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Will I be labeled as a mental patient if I seek treatment at a government hospital?
It's understandable to worry about stigma, but seeking help for OCD is a positive step towards recovery. Mental health conditions are common, and many people seek treatment without facing negative consequences. Government hospitals are equipped to handle mental health issues discreetly, and your treatment will be confidential. Your future is not defined by a diagnosis; many people with OCD lead successful lives.

2. Can I avoid filling out personal information at registration?
While you may have concerns about privacy, hospitals typically require some personal information for treatment purposes. However, you can discuss your privacy concerns with the staff. They are trained to handle such situations sensitively.

3. What if I don’t get along with my doctor?
You have the right to request a different doctor if you feel uncomfortable. Building a trusting relationship with your healthcare provider is crucial for effective treatment.

4. Can I switch to another facility during treatment?
Yes, you can choose to transfer your care to another facility if you feel it is necessary. It’s important to find a place where you feel comfortable and supported.

5. Will the hospital contact my family?
Typically, hospitals will not contact your family without your consent. Your treatment is confidential, and you have control over what information is shared.

6. What if my family finds out?
If your family learns about your condition, it may be helpful to have an open conversation with them. Explain that OCD is a treatable condition and that seeking help is a sign of strength. They may be more supportive than you expect.

7. What are the chances of recovery from OCD?
OCD is a treatable condition, and many individuals experience significant improvement with appropriate therapy and medication. The duration of treatment varies, but with commitment, many people see positive changes within months. Recovery is possible, and your long-standing struggle does not diminish your chances of improvement.

8. Are there side effects to the medications?
Like all medications, those used to treat OCD can have side effects. Common side effects of SSRIs (like fluoxetine or sertraline) may include nausea, insomnia, or changes in appetite. It's essential to discuss any concerns about side effects with your doctor, as they can help manage them or adjust your treatment plan.

In conclusion, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Many people face similar challenges, and seeking help is a courageous step. Consider reaching out to support groups or online communities where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Therapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has been shown to be particularly effective for OCD.
I encourage you to take the next step in your treatment journey and seek the support you need. Your mental health is important, and with the right help, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Best wishes for your recovery!

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