For those who have sought out a psychiatrist, how was your experience? I’m wanting to see one just to talk about potential medication options since I already have a separate therapist, but honestly I’m scared about opening up to someone who isn’t necessarily an OCD specialist. My main themes are suicidal OCD and existential OCD so I’m afraid the mention of these topics to a psychiatrist who might not be aware that these are possible OCD themes would not only diagnose me with severe depression (which I’m not depressed at all) but would forcefully send me to a psychiatric hospital. I’ve also heard some professionals don’t even believe in “Pure O” OCD and many sites only mention that compulsions are physical. I feel like I’m taking a huge risk to potentially be misunderstood with who knows what consequences following. I don’t know if I should share the exact nature of how OCD affects me, but at the same time I’d like to feel comfortable and safe enough to share my story and be understood. Anyone have any insight or experiences?

K-Dizzle

Date posted: 4y

From my own experience, which was literally today, I immediately started off by telling my psychiatrist that I am clinically diagnosed with OCD and then proceeded to tell him about the ins and outs of it specifically (I had to detail my Harm OCD thoughts so I know it can be scary). It worked out fine for me and I'm picking up my medication tomorrow! The only reason you would be sent to a psychiatric hospital is if there is actual intent/plan/desire to hurt yourself or someone else.

Evelyn4416

Date posted: 4y

Thank you for your answer it was super helpful! Makes me feel kinda better about the whole thing :)

K-Dizzle

Date posted: 4y

@Evelyn4416 It was my pleasure. Remember that OCD will try to prevent you from seeking help by manipulating and scaring you... don't let it win! 👊💥

[Deleted]

Date posted: 4y

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Evelyn4416

Date posted: 4y

Thanks for your answer :) does OCD medication require you to be in an SSRI or antidepressant or can you be fine on a “take-as-needed” anxiety med? Sometimes I feel fine but other times it feels like I’m spiraling a bit

EtOCD

Date posted: 4y

@Evelyn4416 The best treatment for OCD are SSRIs and Therapy. In my honest opinion just be open with you psychiatrist, trust me when I say they’ve heard it all before. If it does concern you then bringing up your OCD diagnosis just to be safe.

Evelyn4416

Date posted: 4y

@LaPink I’m doing therapy and ERP now since March :) it has been super helpful and I see a major difference! I think I’d like something to combat the remaining anxiety that is still present even if the thoughts are at less frequency and intensity

Evelyn4416

Date posted: 4y

@LaPink Thank you I’ll be sure to inform them! I used to be on buspirone last year before I knew what I had was OCD and while it worked really well it was causing me intense lightheadedness so I had to stop after alerting my doctor

ARTnotOCD

Date posted: 4y

Finding a doctor can be difficult. I have been lucky, and then I have not been lucky in finding the right person for me. Also, sometimes the right person doesn’t stay the right person. But no matter what, you won’t know if the doctor is the right fit for you, nor can he/she/they best help you if you can’t be open. Sometimes it’s hard, but at least try to be as open as possible. Good luck!

Evelyn4416

Date posted: 4y

Thank you :) and you’re totally right that the right person can change from being that right person. I’ll try to find someone with good reviews and see from there how it goes :)

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