How can I overcome my unusual thoughts and OCD behavior?

Question

Hello doctor,

When I was in class IX, I started touching my books repeatedly, and an unwanted thought occurred where I touched that book with my foot (this happened just in my thought). Then one day, I touched my penis, and after that, I washed my hands 20 to 30 times for fear of germs. And day by day, these symptoms started growing. Later I was not touching my books with my left hand, read one sentence 20 plus times, got little contractions in my penis, saying the same things repeatedly while saying I saw my shoes, etc. When I was in class X, I discovered that I am suffering from OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and I watched videos about it. I got to know about ERP (exposure and response prevention). I did that and the rituals vapourised, but obsessions did not, and I started having more intrusive thoughts. Just one week before my board exams, I got severe stuck song syndrome and gave my exams by keeping chewing gum in my mouth (because I read on the internet that it reduces stuck songs). I have not consulted any doctor yet because I live in a middle-class family. My parents will panic a lot if they know about my OCD.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for taking help from a psychiatrist. I can understand your situation. You have OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). There is non-pharmacological management for it. I suggest you try few guidelines to deal with it. It will help you. You should exercise 30 to 45 minutes daily, like at least going for a walk. If possible, join the gym or practice swimming. It will boost your confidence in yourself. You should do meditation for 20 minutes daily. Just sit in one place in a comfortable position and try to concentrate on your normal breathing. Do not force yourself to stop your thoughts. Just let it be. It will help you to relax and reduces your thoughts. You should eat healthy home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods. You must drink enough water. You should spend quality time with friends and family daily or do video calls if you are living away from your family. You must talk about your OCD to your parents and start treatment as early as possible. Otherwise, it will worsen and be difficult to treat later on. You should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills, language, or musical instruments. You should sleep for seven to eight hours daily. You must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.

Live your life, do not just spend it. Be bold and confident. Do not be afraid of anyone. Stop overthinking. I suggest a capsule of Fluoxetine 20 mg daily in the morning after breakfast.

I hope that you got the answer. Please, let me know if you want some help.

How can I overcome my unusual thoughts and OCD behavior?

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