Reader’s Question

I’m 33 years old. I have a fear of seeing certain people. When I do I have to wash everything that was in physical contact with me before washing myself, e.g. my clothes, things that I was carrying, the floor, etc. I do not know why and how I choose the people. I had a really bad long period in my life and instead of dealing with the problems and being self-confident, I started blaming these people, because I had seen them early the day when I had an unexpected verbal fight with my partner or something bad happened to me. When seeing them I feel helpless and bad, afterwards nervous and dissapointed, but most of all “dirty”.

I’m dealing with the problem in my own way. Sometimes more and sometimes less successfully. I take a shower up to 8 times a day. It takes up a lot of my time; afterwards I feel completely exhausted, sick and tired of my own stupid head.

I’m married. My husband notices it, but he’s supportive, although he doesn’t really know the real reason why I do it.

Now, we are planning to have a baby. Nobody knows about my problem. People see me work with kids and keep telling me I’ll be a great mother. I would so much like to have a child, but I’m completely terrified because of my condition. How can I have a child like this? My life would be much easier and effective if I found a solution to my “OCD“? What should I do? What is the usual treatment for my condition? Pills? Therapy? Which is the most effective’? I live in a country, where going to a psychiatrist is really to be ashamed of, and people label you “Crazy” immediately, and even before you say hello to the doctor everybody in town and around knows you’re a basketcase. And there is no doctor with a good reputation around here, sorry to say.

I see no way out. It’s getting worse. I’d like to solve it now, as soon as possible. I’m 33, almost 34, and it’s high time to have a kid.

Please help me somehow. I’m forever grateful.

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

As you realize, you are exhibiting a combination of depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Depression and OCD are associated with low levels of Serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter. When people become depressed due to stress, many also develop OCD symptoms as you did.

Treatment for OCD is similar to treatment for Depression. We have a variety of medications that are specifically designed for OCD treatment. Considering your culture’s position on psychiatric treatment, you can obain these medications through your family physician or your OB/GYN. Google OCD +medication +treatment and you’ll find several medications that are dual-action, treating both OCD and depression. Take that list to your physician and ask for help. If you are comfortable with counseling/therapy, that will also improve your changes of recovery. I would also use internet resources to educate yourself about the symptoms of both depression and OCD.

Start with your physician or OB/GYN and go from there. There is plenty of help available, even in small communities.