Is This OCD

[gracechick]

I have a family member that has OCD symptoms. He can be controlling, is rarely able to throw out useless things & is miserly about money.

But here is a symptom I don't know where it fits He is rather slovenly. He will wash up & be concerned about combing his hair, but not often wash his hair. Some of his fingernails are long & not attractive...I don't want to post anymore. It seems he simply cannot see how his appearance comes off to others & that he needs to spend some money ect.

I hate to even post this, but I've prayed & prayed (others too) & nothing seems to change. I've read research, but Im still not certain if it's OCD or ADD or whatever so.. please. This has driven us all nuts for a long time

 

[gracechick]

Any suggestions or links would be so appreciated.

 

[gracealone]

Hi Gracechick,
I know there are different types of OCD and it may be that he has the hoarding form. It's really hard to say if the other things, not wanting to wash hair, or cut his nails are related unless you could read the thoughts that cause those actions. He may have some bizarre, magical thinking, like... if I cut my nails then such and such will happen but if I don't cut them it won't.
The only way to know if it's OCD is for him to see a professional.
If you were close enough to him you could ask him just out of curiosity why he lets his nails grow so long.
I don't think hoarders have anxiety until they are forced to stop hoarding.
Hope you can get some help for him.
Blessings,
Mitzi

 

[gracechick]

I see what you're saying. We have asked him, but we tend to get a lame answer or no reply at all. I would be wonderful to find some help with this.

 

[frank1234]

some times you can just point out the small things that bother you, with love, and let him get the hint and work on it. But don't repeat those comments any more, just once is enough. whatever the problem is, repeated telling him is not going to solve it, but It might actually be damaging. Thanks.