OCD and intrusive thoughts

[Dally93]

Hi guys,

i’ve been doing a heap of research and believe I have anxiety with OCD intrusive thoughts. What I was wondering is how do I get an official diagnoses so I can get the best possible treatment? And is there a way to find a psychologist in my city specialising in OCD. My current psychologist is great, but doesn’t seem to have an understanding of OCD intrusive thoughts, as she thinks OCD is mostly when flickering switches etc.

Was also wondering what has worked for people to overcome and cope with this. I hear CBT, ERP and medication have been helpful.

thanks guys.

[PamelaR]

Hello Dally

Welcome to Beyond Blue. It's good to see you've found your way here. You'll find the people are caring, friendly, supportive and respectful of privacy.

I'm able to provide you with some information. You'll find others will pop on to add their input also.

I have PTSD, anxiety and depression. My doctor did the initial assessment. They did this using a standard test (checklist). I'm not sure if this test also identifies OCD tendencies. The checklist is available on the Beyond Blue home page. Find the facts page - there is a document - Anxiety and Depression checklist. You can have a look at that and submit it if you wish.

Do have a doctor you see regularly about your OCD? I have found if I tell my doctor about not getting the right treatment from my psychologist, he has helped to find one that does understand my specific issues. It really makes a difference when you have a doctor who understand mh issues and is prepared to take the time to do something. I have changed doctors and psychologists when they have not helped. Sometimes on medical centres websites you'll find that the doctors list their areas of speciality. Look for ones that list mental health. Then get them to help find a psych that works with people who have OCD.

The Beyond Blue home page has a number of different publications. Are you interested in further research? If so, go to the top of the home page and insert in the search field -

Literature review of anxiety disorders

Hope this helps. Please let us know how you get on.

Kind regards

PamelaR

[Summer Rose]

Hi Dally93

Welcome to the forums. To answer your questions ...

If you call the bb support line on 1300 22 4636 they can help you find a local psychologist who can assist with OCD. You can also go to a website called "Find a Psychologist" and do some research yourself. Your local GP should also be able to help you.

My daughtet has OCD and has reached recovery. Medication and CBT worked for her but I must caution you that everybody's journey is different. Best to keep an open mind about treatment options and discuss it with a professional.

I also organised for my daughter to receive an intensive treatment program at one of the world's best OCD clinics. That's right, Australia has the world's third best OCD clinic, as identified by an independent Cochrane report. Depending on your age and location this may benefit you. Have a go looking on Google ( I would provide the name but I'm pretty sure it's against the site rules).

You are very brave to reach out for help and I wish you the best of luck. Do let us know how you get on. Kind thoughts to you.

[Evilovd]

Sexual/ harm intrusive thoughts are the most horrible topics of worst kind

[geoff]

Hello Evilovd, I asked you on your other thread if you wanted to give us examples of what type of OCD you were struggling with, and know that these thoughts are offensive, irritating and meddle in our daily thoughts and can happen when we see the person involved.

If you can type in 'intrusive thoughts' in the search bar above, then swag of comments by many people will appear on this particular topic.

Let us know what you think and how you feel.

Best wishes.

Geoff.