Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD is the fourth most common kind of mental disorder following depression and drug abuse. Obsessions and compulsions, that’s what it’s all about. If you know Monica Geller from the TV show Friends, you’ll know that she’s a perfect example of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Although the condition could be dangerous for the patients and the people surrounding them in some cases, it could be harmless in other cases just like the condition of Monica Geller.
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Whether a person suffering from OCD needs to see a psychiatrist or not depends on the condition of the patient. If their habits and obsessions are not causing any harm or loss to their lives, jobs, and the society then it’s probably not needed. However, in severe conditions, OCD patients can waste a number of hours every day over their obsessions, which could be counterproductive and affect their lives. In such conditions, it’s recommended to see a doctor.
Most of the people often leave the symptoms of OCD unnoticed which can get worse with time. Here are some of the most important and common symptoms of OCD that we shouldn’t ignore :
- Fears
Obsessive compulsions most commonly include fears related to different scenarios. The patient starts imaging the possibility of unfavorable conditions which turns into fear. It could be an excessive fear of embarrassment, whether it’s about a person’s sexual life or a fear of making mistakes. They may constantly seek suggestions and opinions of others to avoid making a mistake. This can also turn them into a perfectionist who wants everything to be perfect and orderly which makes them more doubtful about any situation. They may start fearing the way they look and always look for reassurance from others for almost everything that’s associated with their lives. - The compulsive habit of hoarding
Patients are usually obsessive about collecting and hoarding things in quite a messy way. Although they may be extremely allergic to germs and care too much about hygiene, their places may still be full of things they never use or won’t ever need, but that doesn’t stop them from collecting more and more of those. - Obsessively Hygienic
People suffering from the obsessive-compulsive disorder can have an extreme repulsion to dirt and germs to a level with normal people can easily consider being abnormal. While it’s not a bad thing to keep yourself clean, but if you are washing your hands dozens of times through the span of a few hours it is something to be worried about. Washing hands may never be enough for them, and same goes for the obsession with cleaning everything and anything around in their house over and over. - Obsessive checking
They may feel like they need to check everything time and again just to make sure it’s there and it’s right. This could be accompanied with the thoughts that someone might have touched their things and messed up the order in which they left it. - Obsession with order
Things need to be in perfect order for patients with OCD. If anything is not in its right place it could become a serious cause of anxiety for them. That’s why they always need to arrange things in a certain order, even their routines. They would arrange their routines in the same repetitive manner every time.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing such problems or observe something suffering from these symptoms you should get an immediate appointment with your doctor or psychiatrist, who can diagnose the condition after psychological examination and certain tests, such as blood test or physical examinations. It is okay if you have mild symptoms that don’t cause any harm to you or people around you, and certain change of habits and counseling your mind can help remove them completely.
Disclaimer
Please note that individual results will vary from person to person. All and any information and statements contained in this article are not intended to replace your doctor’s advice or treatment. We do not provide medical advice, prescription, or diagnose illness. Therefore, our views and nutritional statements are not intended to replace your doctor’s medical advice. If you have a health concern or condition, see your doctor before starting anything on your own.