I think that I have severe ocd but nobody believes me.everyone keeps telling me that I don’t have ocd just because I’m not “clean” or “organized” so I can’t possibly have ocd and that I’m overthinking. but I think about death and I obsess over it to the point that I can’t stop thinking about the afterlife. I’ve always been a christian but now I feel alone because I no longer think that there is truly a man in the sky looking after us. I keep asking myself what if there there isn’t a god and that when we pass it’s pure darkness and loneliness.i never knew I showed symptoms of ocd till I googled it. I would have random thoughts like “touch the lamp post if not (something or someone I care deeply about) will die”. it’s been really bothering me and I seriously feel that I can’t cope. I’ve talked to my parents about going to therapy for ocd and they just brush me off saying how therapy won’t help me at all and it’s a waste of time. can I please get some advice
Hi @laurenn
Thank you for coming forward and sharing how you’re struggling with these thoughts and feelings. It’s completely understandable that you’re concerned about your mental health.
Firstly, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) is not just about being “clean” or “organised.” It’s a complex mental health condition characterised by recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform.
Your experiences, such as obsessing over death and the afterlife, having random thoughts about harm coming to loved ones if you don’t perform certain actions, and feeling overwhelmed by these thoughts, are all common symptoms of OCD.
It’s essential to remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Many people with OCD have similar experiences, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
It’s tough indeed when your parents have concerns about therapy. Share with influential family members who can advocate for you by sharing with them articles on what OCD and treatments that can be beneficial in managing OCD symptoms. A mental health professional can help you develop coping strategies, work through your thoughts and feelings, and improve your overall quality of life.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Educate yourself and others: Learn more about OCD, its symptoms, and treatment options. Share this information with your parents, and explain how therapy can help you.
- Seek support: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional who can offer emotional support and guidance.
- Find a therapist: Look for a therapist who specializes in OCD and anxiety disorders. You can ask your primary care physician for a referral or search online for therapists in your area.
- Online resources: Utilise online resources, which offer information, support groups, and online therapy options.
- Self-care: Practice self-care techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, to help manage your anxiety and OCD symptoms.
Remember, you deserve support and help. Don’t give up on seeking treatment, and know that you’re not alone in this journey. There is hope for healing and recovery.
its normal to obsess about the afterlife and question religion at some point. I think its best to live the fullest life cuz theres nothing after death. no darkness and loneliness, just nothing, you wont exist so u wont be consious about the afterlife being dark n lonely. for you intrusive thoughts wise, since u cant get therapy then a school councillor may help?
Hi @user1138,
I’ve read I noticed that the language used might come across as a bit dismissive to someone in a vulnerable state. Phrases like “just nothing” and “you won’t exist” might unintentionally minimize the depth of the person’s feelings and struggles. As previously mentioned, it’s crucial to ensure that the support we offer feels validating and understanding.
I believe that in previous threads, other Befrienders and Moderators have already communicated to you about the importance of showing empathy and compassion on the “Let’s Talk” platform. The advice given by you, while well-intentioned, might come across as dismissive or not fully addressing the depth of your feelings and concerns. This can leave the receiver feeling unsupported or misunderstood.
I hope you find this feedback helpful, and please know that your efforts to support others are incredibly valuable. If you’d like, I can offer some tips on how to frame your messages more empathetically to better connect with those seeking help.
Hey @laurenn , I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way, and I want you to know that you’re not alone in what you’re experiencing. I totally agree with @CaringBee that OCD is often misunderstood, and many people think it’s only about being neat or organised. It might help to know that, according to the Singapore Mental Health Study, OCD has the 2nd highest treatment gap of 84% in Singapore (fyi, treatment gap means the difference between the number of people who need treatment and those who actually receive it). This shows that you’re not alone in struggling to access help, but it also highlights how important it is to keep advocating for yourself.
I was wondering if you are currently still studying? If yes, maybe you can try talking to a teacher, school counsellor, or another family member aside from your parents (e.g., close cousins?) — about what you’re going through. They might be able to help you talk to your parents again or support you in seeking professional help.
Please hang in there and keep reaching out for support. You deserve to feel better and have people who understand you. 