How to get rid of OCD and stress? - #20312
Hi doctor, I am a college student. For quite a long time, i have noticed OCD symptoms in myself. I am unable to focus in one activity.Due to .For example; If i am sending an email i have to recheck the email over and over again, a fear always haunts me if i would send anything bad to someone. I have to wash my face many times a day, if not i get some sort of headache. I have to do certain mental rituals to satisfy myself. I face many issues everyday but i am unable to explain it properly. I have repeated unwanted thoughts that cause a lot of anxiety. To reduce that anxiety, I feel forced to repeat certain actions or thoughts. Even when I know it’s unnecessary, I can’t stop.It’s affecting my focus, studies, and daily life. My parents dont understand me when i say this.
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Doctors’ responses
Hello dear See for ocd it is probably relaxation of mind to know that everything is normal. Iam suggesting some tips for improvement Do meditation Consider in case you donot perform the things according to your need, Still the world will go normal Consider it as a strong ability but not a diseases Assume to leave the things slowly and slowly You can replace your ocd habits with hobbies Kindly do these things for 2 month. In case of no improvement consult psychiatrist in person for better clarity Improvement will occur definitely Regards
Hello,
You likely have OCD with anxiety. It’s not your fault and it’s treatable.
Stress feeds OCD, and OCD increases stress — a vicious cycle.
You can do CBT with ERP therapy (best treatment) Medication (SSRIs) if symptoms are strong Don’t repeat rituals (rechecking, washing); delay them gradually
This is uncomfortable at first, but very effective.
Label thoughts: “This is OCD, not a real danger”
Reduce stress: sleep well, exercise, limit caffeine
Important: See a psychiatrist or psychologist. Early treatment works very well. Many students improve dramatically with therapy and medication. OCD responds extremely well to treatment Starting at 18 is an advantage — early treatment works best
I trust this helps Thank you
Hi Nirushan, Thank you for explaining this so honestly. What you’re describing fits Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and the most important thing I want you to know is: this is a real medical condition, not a weakness, and it is treatable.
Kindly consult and certified Psychiatrist for initiation of CBT with ERP. This is the best treatment that’s available. The psychiatrist might also start some oral medications to help your condition.
WHAT YOU CAN START TODAY (VERY IMPORTANT)- 1. Stop fighting thoughts- Thoughts are not actions. Let them come, don’t argue, don’t neutralize. 2. Delay compulsions- If you feel urge to recheck or wash, delay by 10 minutes. Gradually increase delay. 3. Reduce reassurance-seeking- Rechecking emails repeatedly feeds OCD 4. Lifestyle- Fixed sleep schedule. Daily physical activity. Reduce caffeine. Short mindfulness practice (10 min/day).
You are not alone. You are not going crazy. OCD does NOT define you. With treatment, people return to normal life.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine
Hello Nirushan Thank you for sharing this with me—it takes courage to talk about these experiences. What you’re describing does sound a lot like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive actions or mental rituals (compulsions) that you feel driven to do, even though you know they’re not really needed. It’s also common for OCD to make it hard to focus and cause a lot of anxiety.
You’re not alone in this, and many people with OCD feel misunderstood, especially by family. The important thing is that OCD is treatable, and things can get better with the right help.
1. Professional Help - Psychiatrist or Clinical Psychologist: They can diagnose OCD and suggest the best treatment plan. - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Especially a type called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is very effective for OCD. - Medication: Sometimes, doctors prescribe medicines like SSRIs (a type of antidepressant) to help reduce symptoms.
2. Self-Help Strategies - Routine: Try to keep a regular daily schedule for sleep, meals, and study. - Mindfulness: Simple breathing exercises or meditation can help manage anxiety. - Journaling: Write down your thoughts and rituals—this can help you notice patterns and triggers.
3. Support - Support Groups: Online or in-person groups can help you feel less alone. - Trusted Person: If you have a friend, teacher, or counselor you trust, sharing your feelings can be a relief.
Would you like to talk about what kind of support or treatment options are available, or do you want tips for managing these symptoms day-to-day? I’m here to listen and guide you, whichever way you prefer.
Thank you
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