Adult Son with OCD

[readytolearn]

Hello Everyone! My 26 year old son has been struggling to keep a job since graduating from college. During that time his adhd symptoms that he had been managing since childhood changed and started resembling OCD. A year and a half ago he was actually diagnosed with OCD in addition to ADHD and started on an antidepressant. When the girl he thought he would marry broke up with him six months ago due in large part to his “symptoms, ” his mental health deteriorated. His compulsions which included excessive time in the bathroom, not being able to arrive at work on time, and increasingly unrealistic expectations about the nature of his work environment resulted in him losing his job. He moved back home six months ago for financial reasons. My husband and I got him signed up for Medicaid three months ago, so he was able to go back on medication and he also began therapy once a week. His mental health professional tried a combination of a stimulant and an antidepressant with him but my son reported feeling more anxiety and depression. Now he is just taking the antidepressant. His counselor recommended doing DoorDash, as my son was sitting in his room all day listening to podcasts. Unfortunately, he only does a few deliveries only after we insist that he needs to do so. This results in angry confrontations, door slamming, unkind words, etc. My husband and I are beyond frustrated. Since our son is an adult, we don’t get updates or any kind of support. Help!

[trailwalker53]

I'm sorry that you and your son are going through this. My adult daughter had severe symptoms starting at age 3. Your description of your son is very similar to my daughter, to the point that she became non-functioning. We tried a multitude of medications and doctors...some helped, some made worse. I can honestly say that the only thing that helped her and literally saved her life was going to McLean Hospital's OCDI program in Belmont, MA. I would encourage you to look into it if that is something he is willing to try. In my opinion, they are the best of the best in the field of OCD. Best of luck to you and your family

[readytolearn in reply to trailwalker53]

Thank you so much for responding! I will look into this resource! Hope that your daughter is well and happy!

[Hershy49]

Belinda Seiger Ocd Specialist runs a support group for parents od teens and young adults with Anxiety and Ocd facebook.com/groups/8975125...

[PurpleWings-e]

Hi there, so sorry to hear your family is going through this. I have OCD and my brother has ADHD. Our symptoms are pretty similar though he goes to anger and I go to isolation. Sounds like your son has both. My suggestions are based on a combination of my experiences and what I’ve witnessed of my brother.

Being told what to do will likely result in the opposite due to the anxiety and internalized feelings of being a failure. Leaving information on your son’s desk and not talking about it might be better because then it’s his “choice”. Try not suggesting anything to him for a week (this is breathing time where he might be able to recognize it’s time to get off his butt). Might sound counterintuitive but give it a try. ☺️

DoorDash is NOT a fun gig. Instead, Shipt and InstaCart are able to keep a person who is easily distracted focused. One trip pays out a whole lot more than DoorDash because it’s grocery shopping. I think it’s super fun honestly and I got to be on my own during the drives and see new places. Tips are way better too.