OCD: General Discussion Thread

Olivia Rivera77 said:Hey, I just remembered you have that appointment with the psychiatrist today... honestly, I'm curious to hear how it went...
I mean, only if you feel like sharing with us.
🙂 🙂 🙂
Best regards...

Hi everyone!

Here is my brief report following my first visit to the psychiatrist this past Monday. I have to admit, he didn't exactly meet my expectations, and the more I dwell on certain "moments" from our encounter, the more irritated I find myself becoming.
The first thing that rubbed me the wrong way was that he immediately began addressing me with "you" in such an informal manner without even asking permission, which I found rather unprofessional. My irritation regarding this hit me with a bit of a delay—which is quite typical of me, as I rarely know how to stand up for myself in the moment and instead tend to stew on things later—but that’s beside the point. Then, his cell phone started ringing, followed by the landline and the intercom, at which point he actually stood up to go answer them.
It also grated on me that he spent twenty minutes lecturing me on what OCD is and how the whole mechanism works, as if I were completely ignorant of the subject. I tried to indirectly signal that he could wrap up the lecture by saying, "I know, I've read quite a bit about this," but his response was simply, "Oh, you've read about it, but..."
Naturally, he wrote my prescriptions immediately. All in all, he left me with the impression of being a very cold individual.
Given that I received a recommendation calling him an "outstanding expert," and since I've only seen him once, I suppose I'll give him one more shot. That said, I would love it if someone could recommend a decent psychiatrist in Los Angeles if they happen to know of one. Otherwise, this current one is Zdenko Katavić.

Anyway, let me know what you think!! Ciao!

Ugh, I’m dealing with OCD too. It’s honestly brutal—especially when I get stuck in those loops where I have to wash my hands exactly six times, or I start repeating these totally nonsensical sentences in my head over and over. It’s driving me insane. Haven't made it to a psychiatrist yet, but I'm definitely planning to hit one up ASAP.

Thank God, I don't bother counting them, I just wash my hands of the whole thing 🙂

though I do keep track of exactly how many dollars are sitting in my wallet

not that I’m much of a materialist, mind you

😂

coastalskipper92 said:Thank God, I don't bother counting them, I just wash my hands of the whole thing 🙂

though I do keep track of exactly how many dollars are sitting in my wallet

not that I’m much of a materialist, mind you

😂

😂

Well, I both wash AND count. 😍 Which means I have to count exactly six times—if I don't, I have to do it six more times, and then six more after that... forever. If I miss one? Total panic. I start thinking I'm gonna catch some freak disease or something. 😠

I tend to break my daily existence down into five distinct segments, just so I can periodically ask myself how things are actually progressing

I use the term "daily" because I’m not talking about the heavy stuff—you know, love, health, or personal freedom—but rather the trivialities... though, frankly, one shouldn't dwell too much on 😈

coastalskipper92 said:I tend to break my daily existence down into five distinct segments, just so I can periodically ask myself how things are actually progressing

I use the term "daily" because I’m not talking about the heavy stuff—you know, love, health, or personal freedom—but rather the trivialities... though, frankly, one shouldn't dwell too much on 😈

For me, it’s usually just repeating total nonsense phrases—if I don't say them a few times, I low-key feel like something's gonna go wrong. And don't even get me started on the number of times I have to wash my hands.

Thomas Rodriguez14 said:😂

Well, I both wash AND count. 😍 Which means I have to count exactly six times—if I don't, I have to do it six more times, and then six more after that... forever. If I miss one? Total panic. I start thinking I'm gonna catch some freak disease or something. 😠

God!!

This really takes me back to how I was just a few years ago... certain aspects of my OCD have shifted and evolved over time. I used to wash my hands constantly and count everything too. Some numbers felt safe while others didn't; six happened to be one of my "safe" numbers. I also struggle with that persistent, irrational fear of getting sick. In truth, most of my compulsions are essentially attempts to "cancel out" the threat of illness or to protect things that feel deeply important to me. Nowadays, I wash my hands less often—though still significantly more than the average person—and the health anxiety has subsided slightly, but it's still heavy enough that I can't truly relax; I live in a state of constant tension.

If anyone is interested, I would love for us to talk more about the other side of OCD—the anxiety, the depression, the restlessness, the general sense of dread and tension. Personally, those mental burdens weigh on me much more heavily than the physical compulsions themselves. Then again, having lived with OCD for eighteen years, I suppose I've spent quite a bit of time researching this on Google.

Sending my best to all my fellow obsessive thinkers! 😉😍

The movie was a total wash for me. I’m heading to my doctor next week with a referral to see a psychiatrist. My school counselor actually suggested the same thing. Now I just have to break the news to my parents that I have OCD... that’s going to be the hard part. Do your parents actually get what this is? How did you guys bring it up to them? I need some encouragement before I talk to mine. I told my sister today—she’s the one who used to laugh the most whenever I had to repeat something four times. This time, though, I wasn't joking.

bluejackal44 said:The movie was a total wash for me. I’m heading to my doctor next week with a referral to see a psychiatrist. My school counselor actually suggested the same thing. Now I just have to break the news to my parents that I have OCD... that’s going to be the hard part. Do your parents actually get what this is? How did you guys bring it up to them? I need some encouragement before I talk to mine. I told my sister today—she’s the one who used to laugh the most whenever I had to repeat something four times. This time, though, I wasn't joking.

I opened up to my mom about eight years ago, and honestly, we haven't breathed a word of it since—she never brought it up again. Back then, I just told her I was seeing a psychologist, and she actually accompanied me to one of my sessions once. As time went on, the whole topic just kind of "faded away" (which, let's be honest, was probably the path of least resistance), and it stayed in the past. After that, I was doing reasonably well for five or six years—actually, much longer than that—but now I've started seeing a psychiatrist again. I didn't tell my parents, and I don't plan to; they haven't earned that level of transparency, and frankly, it’s easier to carry this weight on my own. I think we can all agree there's still a lingering stigma surrounding mental health professionals. My parents aren't quite enlightened enough on the subject, so only two people close to me know the truth.

So, I'm not entirely sure what advice to give you regarding whether to speak up or stay silent. In my experience, being open didn't necessarily help; I just ended up feeling foolish because it was clear my mother didn't truly grasp the gravity of it, so I decided to spare her from the confusion moving forward. You really have to weigh it based on your relationship with your parents. If you generally have a healthy, transparent dynamic where they support and understand you, then perhaps you should tell them. I recognize how heavy it is to carry such a burden alone, and the urge to share it with someone is completely human. If you believe they will meet you with empathy, then go ahead. Who knows, maybe it could actually be a step toward deepening your connection with them. Good luck!! 👍

Honestly, if I sit back and really think about it... if things are more or less stable within your family—and from the way you sound, it seems they are—then I believe you should absolutely take the chance to be open with them and see how they handle it. If the reaction turns out to be a disaster, you can always retreat after a month or two with a casual, "Don't worry, I'm fine now; it was just a passing phase."

Best regards,

Thanks... I'll bring it up when they're actually in a good mood. xD

obsessive-compulsive disorder...

It's interesting, honestly—I’ve never actually been diagnosed with it, but you don't have to be some kind of genius to realize you're dealing with at least a mild version of it...

So, I wanted to ask those of you who have more experience here: do you think I actually have OCD, and if so, where would you say I fall on the spectrum?

Basically, ever since I can remember, I've been super sensitive about certain things. For me, it isn't about the classic stuff like washing my hands constantly or anything like that, but I’ve always been obsessed with making lists and planning everything out. Like, if there was a square piece of paper on a square desk, the edges of that paper had to be perfectly aligned with the edges of the table—nothing could just be tossed down carelessly. Even when it comes to studying, I can't just start at some random time like 9:07; I have to wait until at least 9:15 because that's when the clock hand hits a perfect right angle compared to an imaginary line running from the 12 to the 6...

And I can only study if I'm pacing around and talking out loud, repeating the same sentences a few times over. Also, once I start studying, I can't stop or do anything else until I finish a whole paragraph. If a paragraph carries over to the next page of the book, I absolutely have to finish that entire page before moving on, because it drives me crazy if half a sentence is on one page and the other half is on the next...

To be fair, these weird little systems have actually been pretty helpful for my work routine sometimes, but looking back, it all feels a bit too "hard-wired" and tense.

On top of all that, I struggle with anxiety and depression that cycles in and out with periods of intense high energy. I also compulsively pick at my fingers and scratch around my cuticles—mostly doing it without even realizing it—and I tend to sleep way too much during the day but can't fall asleep until super late at night, plus my concentration is shot.

I can see that I deal with depression, but what's really eating at me is whether this is all triggered by external factors like stress or actual trauma (I lost my dad to cancer when I was little) or if I’ve just always been wired this way (considering I've had those first OCD-type traits since preschool)? help?

I’ve recently come to the realization that I might be dealing with what Americans call OCPD—Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder.

To be clear, this isn't about repetitive rituals; it's more about an obsession with planning and lists. I find myself constantly trying to micromanage things that are inherently uncontrollable. For instance, if I want to make coffee, I have to pause at the counter and map out the entire sequence—minimizing the steps from the fridge to the counter to the microwave, and so on. It’s rather absurd. The same applies when I head out, say, to my university classes. I meticulously calculate my departure time, how many minutes it takes to reach the bus stop, the transit duration, and even what I'll do during the commute. Every single time. Occasionally, minor compulsions surface too—if I accidentally brush my hand against something insignificant, I feel compelled to wipe it off on a piece of clothing or anything else I deem "clean." Sometimes I'll even use a ruler to "scrape" the perceived dirt off my skin, repeating the motion until my hand feels "pure."
I also experience bouts of intense rumination. I'll fixate on something I said or did to someone—no matter how trivial the interaction was—and dissect it down to the smallest detail. These thoughts can haunt me for days at a time.

I'm honestly not sure if this constitutes a genuine issue...😕

wearycobra36 said:Hi everyone!

Here is my brief report following my first visit to the psychiatrist this past Monday. I have to admit, he didn't exactly meet my expectations, and the more I dwell on certain "moments" from our encounter, the more irritated I find myself becoming.
The first thing that rubbed me the wrong way was that he immediately began addressing me with "you" in such an informal manner without even asking permission, which I found rather unprofessional. My irritation regarding this hit me with a bit of a delay—which is quite typical of me, as I rarely know how to stand up for myself in the moment and instead tend to stew on things later—but that’s beside the point. Then, his cell phone started ringing, followed by the landline and the intercom, at which point he actually stood up to go answer them.
It also grated on me that he spent twenty minutes lecturing me on what OCD is and how the whole mechanism works, as if I were completely ignorant of the subject. I tried to indirectly signal that he could wrap up the lecture by saying, "I know, I've read quite a bit about this," but his response was simply, "Oh, you've read about it, but..."
Naturally, he wrote my prescriptions immediately. All in all, he left me with the impression of being a very cold individual.
Given that I received a recommendation calling him an "outstanding expert," and since I've only seen him once, I suppose I'll give him one more shot. That said, I would love it if someone could recommend a decent psychiatrist in Los Angeles if they happen to know of one. Otherwise, this current one is Zdenko Katavić.

Anyway, let me know what you think!! Ciao!

Hey... I'm seeing mine in a week, so I'll ask him if he knows anyone in Los Angeles and let you know... As for your experience, I can't speak for mine. My doctor has never been like that with me; sure, we have some talks where I end up a bit disappointed, but overall he's fine... plus, he's super respectful and uses formal language with me, haha.🤷🤣

I’ll add my two cents to this discussion.

My sister is 18 and struggles with OCD. To be honest, I can't pinpoint exactly when or how it started. Even as a little kid, she had her little rituals—like making sure her slippers were placed in a specific spot at a specific angle—but back then, it wasn't a major concern. As she got older, however, it escalated to the point where she has to count to 15 or 19 during every single task. It applies to everything: washing her hands, getting dressed, or even just picking up a glass of water and having to wait before taking a sip. It’s reached a point where she's late for school almost every day because it takes her two hours just to get dressed, and showering or washing her hair takes an entire afternoon. These compulsions are actively preventing her from living a normal life. She went through some difficult things during her childhood—things a kid shouldn't have to witness or experience—which undoubtedly played a massive role in how this developed.

This past summer, she finally started seeing a psychiatrist. At first, she was forced into it and was in tears, but we are finally seeing some movement. It took her a few months to actually admit what her problem was once she realized she couldn't live like this anymore. She has been taking Fevarin for about a month now. We were told that the first real results typically show up after about two months, so we are waiting. For now, she isn't in psychotherapy; she just does follow-up appointments with the psychiatrist, which usually last about 10 to 15 minutes.

As much as she is suffering, it’s just a different kind of struggle for us at home. I truly hope things start looking up for her, and soon. 🙂

Olivia Rivera77 said:Hey... I'm seeing mine in a week, so I'll ask him if he knows anyone in Los Angeles and let you know... As for your experience, I can't speak for mine. My doctor has never been like that with me; sure, we have some talks where I end up a bit disappointed, but overall he's fine... plus, he's super respectful and uses formal language with me, haha.🤷🤣

Hey there!

After that latest report came out, I decided to head back in for another session, and honestly, this time was actually an improvement. He finally used "sir" or "ma'am" instead of being overly casual, and he actually seemed to focus on me for once, rather than his phone ringing incessantly every five minutes. I suppose I shouldn't be too surprised; I tend to harbor this unrealistic expectation of finding the perfect psychiatrist—some sort of flawless blend of profound wisdom, genuine warmth, deep empathy, and clinical brilliance. For now, though, I’m sticking with him. The sheer exhaustion of hunting for someone new is becoming quite taxing, both in terms of my schedule and my bank account, since you essentially have to start from square one with every new provider. Who knows? Maybe he’ll eventually prove to be exactly what I need. I would love it if you could ask your doctor who they might recommend, or perhaps get their professional take on my current guy, Zdenko Katavić. Just keep it brief when you ask Gab, though; there's no sense in wasting anyone's precious time.

Much appreciated, and all the best!😉 😍🥳

wearycobra36 said:Hey there!

After that latest report came out, I decided to head back in for another session, and honestly, this time was actually an improvement. He finally used "sir" or "ma'am" instead of being overly casual, and he actually seemed to focus on me for once, rather than his phone ringing incessantly every five minutes. I suppose I shouldn't be too surprised; I tend to harbor this unrealistic expectation of finding the perfect psychiatrist—some sort of flawless blend of profound wisdom, genuine warmth, deep empathy, and clinical brilliance. For now, though, I’m sticking with him. The sheer exhaustion of hunting for someone new is becoming quite taxing, both in terms of my schedule and my bank account, since you essentially have to start from square one with every new provider. Who knows? Maybe he’ll eventually prove to be exactly what I need. I would love it if you could ask your doctor who they might recommend, or perhaps get their professional take on my current guy, Zdenko Katavić. Just keep it brief when you ask Gab, though; there's no sense in wasting anyone's precious time.

Much appreciated, and all the best!😉 😍🥳

Hey... no worries at all. I'm really glad things went smoother for you this time around. I've got an appointment on February 6th, so I'll shoot you a DM after that and let you know how it goes... catch ya later.👍

This is pretty interesting to think about. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this perspective: I believe these kinds of disruptions happen when someone's ambition outpaces their actual capacity, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction, a lack of direction, or even a feeling of failure. 😁 But honestly, there's a straightforward fix for that: JUST EMBRACE YOUR ACTUAL LIMITS. Please, let me know what you all think!

redharbor23 said:I’ll add my two cents to this discussion.

My sister is 18 and struggles with OCD. To be honest, I can't pinpoint exactly when or how it started. Even as a little kid, she had her little rituals—like making sure her slippers were placed in a specific spot at a specific angle—but back then, it wasn't a major concern. As she got older, however, it escalated to the point where she has to count to 15 or 19 during every single task. It applies to everything: washing her hands, getting dressed, or even just picking up a glass of water and having to wait before taking a sip. It’s reached a point where she's late for school almost every day because it takes her two hours just to get dressed, and showering or washing her hair takes an entire afternoon. These compulsions are actively preventing her from living a normal life. She went through some difficult things during her childhood—things a kid shouldn't have to witness or experience—which undoubtedly played a massive role in how this developed.

This past summer, she finally started seeing a psychiatrist. At first, she was forced into it and was in tears, but we are finally seeing some movement. It took her a few months to actually admit what her problem was once she realized she couldn't live like this anymore. She has been taking Fevarin for about a month now. We were told that the first real results typically show up after about two months, so we are waiting. For now, she isn't in psychotherapy; she just does follow-up appointments with the psychiatrist, which usually last about 10 to 15 minutes.

As much as she is suffering, it’s just a different kind of struggle for us at home. I truly hope things start looking up for her, and soon. 🙂

Teach her how to play chess... seriously, take my advice, you won't regret it. 😉

slyhawk12 said:This is pretty interesting to think about. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this perspective: I believe these kinds of disruptions happen when someone's ambition outpaces their actual capacity, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction, a lack of direction, or even a feeling of failure. 😁 But honestly, there's a straightforward fix for that: JUST EMBRACE YOUR ACTUAL LIMITS. Please, let me know what you all think!

There’s certainly some truth to that, at least based on what I’ve seen, though I suspect the solution isn't quite as straightforward as he makes it sound... I could probably expand on that, but I have a cake in the oven calling my name and I really ought to hurry... take care.