Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
I thought it would be good to update on my progress so far, which whilst still on my journey, may provide some help to those looking for guidance?
I suffer from OCD and Trichotillomania and Anxiety and Depression.
I have had these problems since I was a child but only sought help from the Doctor in August 2009, as I was particularly concerned that my hair may stop growing back in various places.
I suppose I felt I coud hide the other syptoms, though they were glaringly obvious to some of the people around me.
My GP at the time fobbed me off regarding the Trich, saying there was not really any help on the NHS. Her light-hearted response was actually quite upsetting as I really had to PLUCK up the courage to take myself there!
I started to despair around the start of 2010 and contacted OCD Action. I spoke to a very helpful and understanding lady (I don't know who it was, sorry). She provided me with much better advice and advised me to return to my GP and ask for a referral.
In February 2010, I returned to see a locum GP who was actually quite good and referred me for psychotherapy.
In April, after some confusion on where I was to be reffered and some form filling, I was referred to The Priory based on my geographical positioning and level of treatment rewuired.
In June 2010, I had a telephone interview to assess me for the referral.
I was then referred which I was told could take a long time to come around, eg, 12-18 months.
In November 2011, following advice on the forum, I decided to see my NEW GP regarding SSRI Anti-depressants as it was getting difficult to cope with everything.
My GP prescribed Fluoxetine 20mg daily.
In January, 2011, I went back to see my GP and advised that I felt the SSRI's were not making a notable effect. So, the dose was doubled to 2 x 20mg tabs daily.
Last week, February 2011, I attended my first session of CBT with a Psychotherapist from The Priory. The first session was very introductory and more about giving a background to my problems, etc.
Hopefully, progress will be made soon?
My Therapist has also asked if the sessions can be recorded anonomously - not sure what to do, I don't know if they are a trainee or that is usual?
I haven't really found the effects of Fluoxetine that noticeable, albeit they would be gradual.
However, I have noticed side effects including:
Fatigue
Vivid dreams
Nausea
Anxiety
Memory loss & confusion
I saw my GP again today to review my medication, ie, whether to continue, stop or chage the medication.
We decided to change the medication to Citalopram, which I no experience of, so I am a little apprehensive, but we'll see...
Apologies for the length of this post but I thought I should share 'my story so far' with the forum, as OCD Action has helped me and maybe my story will somehow help others?
Thank you all and good luck.
I will update in the future about the medication and CBT progress.
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