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HomeAnswersPsychiatryocdI am obsessed with cleaning and organizing. Could this be OCD?

Is a constant need for cleanliness and organization indicative of OCD?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At May 17, 2024
Reviewed AtMay 17, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am experiencing something I do not quite understand. I find myself constantly cleaning and organizing things at home, even when I am tired. It is like I cannot rest until everything is clean and tidy. I have become obsessed with cleanliness, and I often find myself forcing everyone at home to keep everything in its place. This obsession is causing me a lot of irritation and frustration, and it is affecting my relationships with everyone around me.

Could this be OCD? If so, is it a serious issue? And how can I overcome it? Should I consider trying any methods or therapy for this? Please, I need your help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query.

I understand your situation, and it sounds like you may be dealing with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). It is essential to seek treatment to improve your condition. There are non-pharmacological management strategies that you can try to help cope with OCD:

  1. Engage in regular exercise for 30-45 minutes daily, such as going for a walk.
  2. Practice meditation for 20 minutes daily. Sit comfortably and focus on your normal breathing, allowing thoughts to come and go without trying to stop them.
  3. Eat a healthy diet consisting of home-cooked meals and avoid junk food.
  4. Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
  5. Spend quality time with friends and family, either in person or through video calls if you are away from them.
  6. Pursue creative hobbies like reading, writing, painting, drawing, or learning new skills or languages.
  7. Ensure you get seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
  8. Avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.
  9. Embrace life fully and confidently.

While these strategies can be helpful, it is important to consider seeking professional help. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be highly effective in treating OCD. Also, medication may be prescribed in some cases to manage symptoms. Fluoxetine is one such medication commonly used to treat OCD, but it is essential to consult a doctor before starting any medication.

I hope this information helps, and please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi
Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Psychiatry

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