Does it sound like I may have OCD or some sort of mental problem?

Question

Until about a year or so ago I would have considered myself "normal". It all started 5-6 years ago when I stopped driving on the freeway due to panic attacks. I drove on the freeway for many years prior, but had a bad accident in 1995 that involved a semi-truck that totalled out my car.

When I was younger, I remember being a strategic thinker. I was always looking for a better way to do things. I always stood out and was very sharp. I could have done better in school but I let other things occupy my mind (boys and friends). I always had the best intentions but never seemed to get things done. It was that way with school projects or anything. I always ended up half doing things because I was too lazy to apply myself.

Now as an adult, I'm noticing the same patterns. I have a good job. I am married. I am an intelligent individual with lots of potential. I could be doing so much more but I can't seem to focus on one thing long enough. I'm trying to start a side business.

I started this business in 2001 after I was laid off from my job in Oregon and it went very well. I moved back to my place of birth (Texas) in 2003, got married in 2004 and decided to get the business going again this year.

I have been taking notes, doing research, brainstorming, but nothing can seem to get typed up and completed. I have all the resources I need. I have business credit, supplies, etc., but I would rather be on Yahoo Answers for hours asking and answering questions. I have a lot of spare time as all I do is go to work and come home. I even work on my business venture at work. I brainstorm and always have the best intentions of coming straight home to work on it, but the phone rings. It's time to eat dinner. I want to be on Yahoo Answers. I want to sleep. I want to play online games. I want to do everything except the things that will benefit me.

Do I have a mental disorder or OCD or something?

I am 30 years old by the way.

Answer 1

Having dealt w/someone w/OCD you have some of the symptoms. My first suggestion would be to contact your primary care physician and have a thorough examination/blood work up/the whole deal. Eliminate the possibility ofany physical problems. Next I would see a therapist. Your dr. can recommend one. Meanwhile, start journaling. You'll be surprised at how much will come out of this. Simply start writing, almost to the point of not deliberately thinking too much about what you are writing. Let out your true feelings. Set it aside without reading what you wrote. The next day do the same, for a wk and then go back and read your writings. Something may just pop out at you and give you a clue as to why you do not allow yourself to follow through. Keep journaling. Your dr. may even suggest a low dosage of an antidepressent. Be open with your thinking. You do not have a mental problem. This just sounds like a bump in the road - Good Luck!

Answer 2

Sounds like you have ADHD. Try going to a doctor and seeing if you can get a prescription. I think you might find some help allows you to focus.