Do I suffer from OCD?

Posted by Kim on June 08, 1999 at 23:38:09
I have was diagnosed with depression and panic disorder about 6 weeks ago.  I currently take 75mg of Zoloft each night before bed.  I also take .5 mg of Lorazepam twice a day and an additional 1 mg dose at the onset of a panic episode.  I have been seeing a therapist once a week since the diagnosis.  I keep a very tidy house and find it impossible to leave home if anything is out of place or dirty.  My family thinks that my behaviors are unnecessary.  At times, I feel overwhelmed by my drive to dust, vacuum and mop.  I can't stand a dirty bathroom and with 3 bathrooms in our house, I can very easily spend 2 or 3 hours just in this area.  Do I suffer from OCD?

Posted by HFHS M.D- HG on June 11, 1999 at 10:20:42
Dear Kim
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is diagnosed in a person who has either obsessions or compulsions or both.. An obsession is a recurrent and intrusive thought, feeling, idea or sensation. Obsessions increase anxiety and  a person experiences them as uncomfortable. They can be disabling. Obsessions are often time consuming and interfere significantly with normal day to day activities, occupational functioning, usual social activities or relationships with friends and family members. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors like washing, counting, checking, praying etc. and the behaviors are aimed at preventing or reducing a distress.  These symptoms should not be due to direct effects of a substance (drugs, medications) or a general medical condition. People with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are commonly affected by other mental disorders like major depressive disorder, social phobia, alcohol use disorders etc. I would recommend that you talk to your Psychiatrist about your concern of having OCD. If you find yourself  unduly worried about cleanliness; find washing again and again despite knowing that your efforts are unnecessary or irrational, then OCD may be present  A combination of behavioral therapy and medications have good outcome.  
If you are interested, Henry Ford Hospital can provide you well trained mental health professionals. For a confidential evaluation, you may call Henry Ford Hospital at 248-689-7476.    
This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace the evaluation by a physician.
Key words: OCD