Do I have OCD?

Some context:
I’m 15, and for a while I have had this weird habit which has been making my life so much more annoying. It’s these small changes in my everyday routine that collectively frustrate me so much. For example, when I wash my face, I often spend -and I am not exaggerating- 30 minutes, trying to get the ‘right’ motions. I will brush my hair over and over again, even though the tangles are long gone, because it doesn’t feel ‘right’. Even drinking water - if my hand shakes whilst I lift the cup, I put it down and try again - so weird?? Literally everything in my everyday routine, I feel the need to do it again and again. I know I shouldn’t self diagnose, but that’s not really my goal - I just want to find out if this happens in general to everyone or specifically people with OCD, or any other mental disorders. It’s just that I want to find out whether I’m just over-reacting before trying to get self diagnosed. I’ve always been very picky with everything, but for a while it’s literally been annoying me so much because of how much time I waste. I don’t know, what do you guys think? Do I have the traits of someone with OCD or am I just a perfectionist? Either way, I really want to do something about it, it’s honestly so p*ssing.

Reply 1

JohnB1

Hi there. We're not in a position to provide you with a diagnosis, but I would suggest that you should seek a professional diagnosis as the actions you are describing are clearly starting to impact on your life. If OCD is diagnosed, then there are treatment options available to assist you in coping. Take care.

Reply 2

Anonymous #2

doesn't really seem like OCD to me, it seems like you're only experiencing some repetitive behaviours (compulsions). OCD is also characterised by obsessive thoughts (hence the name).

however i'm not a professional so looking at the diagnostic criteria for OCD in the DSM-5 may help.

Reply 3

Anonymous #1

Original post by JohnB1

Thanks for your response. I’m just afraid of getting a diagnosis in that I may be overthinking it too much and I don’t actually have any mental disorder. If this develops and plays a bigger impact on my life, however, I may reach out to someone though.

Reply 4

Anonymous #1

Original post by Anonymous

doesn't really seem like OCD to me, it seems like you're only experiencing some repetitive behaviours (compulsions). OCD is also characterised by obsessive thoughts (hence the name).
however i'm not a professional so looking at the diagnostic criteria for OCD in the DSM-5 may help.

I’m not sure why but your response feels like a relief. From every piece of information i’ve found online its lead me to that conclusion so i glad there’s reason otherwise (trying not to self diagnose but naturally I start worrying). I have experienced thoughts which can seem obsessive but in my opinion that’s just what happens to everyone from time to time. Thank you for your help :smile: