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Dot, I'm really glad you are feeling better. OCD is a truely torturous disorder. I wouldn't even consider getting off the meds. You deserve a HUGE round of applause for being able to root out the problem and work with your doctor. Good luck with finding ways to enjoy (and cope) with your new life.
Shutterbug, I really don't think your scratching is OCD. Of course, I'm not an MD, and it does sound like a BIG coping kind of behavior and where you say it is a big part of your life, maybe I'm wrong - but definately tell your doctor. OCD typically presents itself as ritualistic behavior (compulsions such as hand washing, repetitive tasks, doing things in even numbers, repeating phrases, checking and rechecking things over and over etc.) AS WELL AS, having intrusive thoughts that don't leave and are very disturbing. OCD is one disorder that can also respond well to therapy. The person suffering from OCD can actually reverse the symptoms by following a prescribed set of responses to the OCD symptoms. Research has shown that a great deal of success can be gained by therapy, which of course may be a life long commitment.
My source is my daughter who is 17 and was diagnosed at the age of 6. She has been able to control her OCD with therapy, but she also was "caught " at a very young age. Adults who have been diagnosed are, for the most part, people who have been suffering since they were children as well. Therefore, medications may be much more helpful because their OCD is far more advanced and a huge part of the sufferers personality.
As you can see, I have spent a lot of time learning about OCD. That is the only reason I feel I can offer any thoughts on it. Good luck!
Love and light, Kit
namaste
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