Is it paranoia? How to deal with it?

Question

My problem started six month ago. I started to be unbelievably insecure about everything I do. The worst is my walk away from the place I work and live. I switch of everything I can and then I double-check everything...and then I do it from two to ten times...it's so irritating but I really can't help myself. When I finally leave I become really unsafe and I have to come back even if I am far away...Then I double-check it again...It helps time to time, but sometimes it happens that I seriously think of my house burns away. It's not just about my walk away from places...It happens whenever...but everytime the end is one big tragedy in my imagination ...ike someone from my relatives dies or something like that. Don't you know how can I deal with it?Thank you.

Answer 1

It is OCD, see:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OCD

Answer 2

My son is being diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome and the reason he had to see a therapist in the first place is because he has OCD's. He has what he calls 'habits' that he has to do otherwise he thinks that something bad will happen to either of his parents. He feels frightened and insecure and his anxiety goes up when he is stressed by something. The OCD is an expression of his Asperger's Syndrome, and this might be something you might want to look into. If you only have OCD and not AS as well, you might want to look up some kind of cognitive behavioural therapy. I don't know how old you are so I can't say if you would qualify for CAMHS services (Children and Adolescent mental Health Service). Take care.

Answer 3

I know what you are speaking of, having lived with someone with a similar problem.

Here are some self-help methods to try:
--Get yourself a roll of blue (painter's) masking tape at Walmart or Home Depot or a hardware store (it sticks well, but is easy to remove and to see)
--Now, get on your computer, on Word. List and number every switch or lock or faucet that you feel the need to check. Once completed, print off 2 weeks worth/ 14 pages of lists.
-- Holding the colored tape, tear off a long strip and tear that same strip in half again. place it over each turned-off switch so it cannot move. As you do this, look to the list on your paper, use the other half-strip of colored tape, and place the strip of tape on the corrosponding number.
-- When every line/switch # has been filled, you will know for certain that every switch is off. FOLD THE PAPER AND TAKE IT WITH YOU. If / when you question your switches being turned off, take out the paper, and check for the colored tape on every line. (You will not need to go back to the house, because you HAVE THE TAPE AND THE PAPER to prove the switches are off)

When you return home you can easily remove the tape to turn on switches as you use them..

NEXT, I hope you make an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist, to see them often about your paranoia / obsession. It really is not an average thing that people deal with. I hope you can get the help you need so that this will become less of a problem for you.

I wish you well.

PS get 3 or more colors of tape. change the color you use each day so you will know you have accomplished it for THAT DAY.

Answer 4

It sounds to me like OCD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, than can be brought on by depression, anger, unsettled in life, many things. You may also be depressed and need help to combat the depression, which may stop the OCD. It would be a good idea for you to ask your gp to refer you for cognitive behaviour therapy which will help you to understand WHY you act like this, and try to find ways of breaking or at least easing off from this habit. Do you know when it started? What was the trigger? These are questions you need to ask yourself while you are waiting for your referral. Good luck.

Answer 5

The best thing to do is talk with your doctor..Yes, it does appear to have (OCD) obssessive compulsive disorder symtoms but I do not know all about you and I am not a doctor.

I myself do check my stove (usually more then once. And I do worry at times (did I make sure the coffee pot was unplugged, stove off...E.T.C)
A little bit of OCD is no serious matter as long as it's not affecting anyone else or you.
It's a lot better than being careless, I say.
Talk with your regular doctor..

Answer 6

Hi Joanna,

I can not provide adequate help in your current situation but I will share some of my information with you.


According to DSM-IV:

PARANOID PERSONALITY DISORDER

==========================
Inclusion: At least 4 from A
Exclusion: B
==========================

(A) A pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by at least four of the following:

(A1) Suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving him or her.

(A2) Is preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends or associates.

(A3) Is reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against him or her.

(A4) Reads hidden demeaning or threatening meanings into benign remarks or events.

(A5) Persistently bears grudges, ie. unforgiving of insults, injuries, or slights.

(A6) Perceives attacks on his or her character or reputation that are not apparent to others and is quick to react angrily or counterattack.

(A7) Has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner.
_______________________________________
(B) EXCLUDE the diagnosis if the features only occurred during the course of schizophrenia, a mood disorder with psychotic features, or another psychotic disorder, and are not due to the direct physiological effects of a general medical condition.

And do not worry, paranoia is curable.

Now let us talk about your situational problem.
Is it really difficult for you to find a Doctor (I am sure any Doctor will guide you.) Do not feel scared to see a Doctor.
(In internet to prescribe a drug/medication or therapy is considered as a crime in most of the countries and is punishable. So no Doctors can provide you adequate help here.)

Sometimes, some people make self diagnosis. In many cases self made diagnosis are wrong. You described your ritual/repeated behavior and you think it as a paranoia. But It can be your stress or Anxiety - A simple Anxiety disorder.

Life has ups and down and every person goes through crisis. If you are in some crisis request your relatives/family members/friends help. Do not jump into conclusions. And seeking mental health experts help will be beneficial.

You are strongly suggested to visit or ask/seek expert person . You can call nearest emergency department or any available hot line.

I wish you a good luck.
Get well soon.

Answer 7

Like the other answerers above, it sounds like OCD to me. This kind of problem needs physical help, help you can't get on here. Get up, and go see a doctor, and tell him or her everything you just typed down, they'll help you, find you the right medication, and everything will slowly get better. Best wishes (:

Answer 8

THis sounds like OCD obsessive compulsive disorder go to a Dr.

Answer 9

Like Bumble Bee says, it sounds like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Make an appointment with your doctor and they will probably refer you to a psychiatrist, to help with your symptoms and to find the cause of them.

Wishing you a quick recovery. :)

Answer 10

Its OCD - go to the doctors about it.