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 M¢25  Funded By Mahalo ? |  August 01, 2009 09:30 PM

Anyone know anyone with OCD?

It may be a current "buzz word", but it is a real problem.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

How to help these people help themselves? Discussion amongst people always helps each other.

National Institute of Health Explanation
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/index.shtml

QUOTE

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, OCD, is an anxiety disorder and is characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Repetitive behaviors such as handwashing, counting, checking, or cleaning are often performed with the hope of preventing obsessive thoughts or making them go away. Performing these so-called "rituals," however, provides only temporary relief, and not performing them markedly increases anxiety.

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August 02, 2009 12:37 AM
I have a mild case. I have to check over and over to make sure the oven, stove and curling irons in the house are all off before I leave the house or go to bed. I also have to check to make sure all the doors are locked several times at night before going to bed. Sometimes to save time, I'll just have my husband check them all so it won't take me so long to leave the house or get
to bed.
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August 01, 2009 09:48 PM
I think the majority of people have some sort of obsessive compulsion, however mild or however obvious it may be.

I've always had a problem with walking onto a different bit of pavement or onto a different type of carpet or other indoor flooring. I like it to feel even on my feet and so have to do an even number of steps with each foot.

I know that sounds mental, but it's not something that's noticeable to anyone else as I've done it since I can remember and it's just natural for me.

Then, obviously there are people who have to obsessively wash their hands or lock the front door and things like that. That's the kind of compulsion that must be very irritating at best and absolutely unbearable the rest of the time.
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August 01, 2009 10:44 PM
This is actually quite normal. While pavement may be your thing, we all have something similar. Contrary to popular belief, handwashing isn't always one of the symptoms of OCD. My child has this, I do not find him irritating or unbearable, he is my son. Honestly, I could see how or why one could feel this way though. If it makes you feel better, I can't eat if my food is touching. Thanks for sharing your story.

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August 01, 2009 10:48 PM
true, slight neuroses are different than psychotic behavior. take care!

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August 01, 2009 11:21 PM
Hi @angiem1981 - I know hand washing isn't always a symptom, it's just a very obvious and well-known one :)

It doesn't bother me the way I feel I have to walk on the pavement or in the house as to me it's normal! :)

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August 01, 2009 10:39 PM
My son has OCD, and other disorders. This is something that you must take day by day. I don't consider him special needs or make a big to do about it. My concern is that he be able to carry on and function like any other child. Some days are better than others and there are no quick fixes. All cases of OCD can drastically differ and the earlier its caught the better. Dealing with someone who suffers from this, or any other mental health disorder can be draining. Getting support and becoming educated about OCD can be very beneficial.

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August 01, 2009 10:47 PM
thank you for your comments. My sister in law, about 20 years ago diagnosed her own mother with a mild case of it. Sis is a physician with 35 years experience, and had the diagnosis confirmed by several psychiatrists.

It is only a serious problem if it interfers with a normal daily life (however that is defined for each individual).

We all try to help, yes. This lovely elderly lady is 85, and still doing pretty well. (just MAD sometimes she can't drive the freeways or city streets any longer)

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