OCD Subtypes
Tuesday June 2, 2009
Watching the second episode of “Obsessed” on A&E last night really reinforced the considerable variation with which OCD can manifest itself. Although there are many recognized OCD subtypes, just over half of people with OCD report obsessions and/or compulsions that are unique to them. This can be very painful for patients as they feel alone, embarrassed or isolated – even from others with OCD. How does your OCD manifest itself?
Comments
I hate reading ocd books and none of the patients or examples are anything at all like me.
I have relationship OCD. It’s awful because I know I love my husband very much but I’m often plagued with doubts about if I really love him. This type of OCD isn’t mentioned in the books I’ve read so it makes me feel alone too. My psychiatrist assures me that it’s just a different manifestation and that it does exist and she has treated patients for it. I go from being head over heels about my husband one minute to doubting and scrutinizing my relationship the next. My husband knows all about my OCD and it helps. It’s important to know that there are all different types of OCD but all are painful. Take care!
My ten year old daughter has intrusive thoughts that have a common theme. The thoughts are sexual in nature and they cause her great anxiety and feelings of guilt and shame. Her compulsion is to “confess” these thoughts every night before she can go to sleep. The ritual takes an hour sometimes. Sometimes she avoids going to bed until she is so tired she cannot stay awake any longer. This all seemed to develop suddenly and I have no idea why. She’s getting evaluated soon and I hope whatever treatment exists that it helps. It’s so very difficult to see her going through so much suffering. It breaks my heart.