Fear of telling parents and being on medication

[themower]

ive had OCD for about 3 years (the first year i didnt even know wut anxiety disorders were.  Then, I heard about it somewhere and it sounded uncomfortably like me.  I was sort of in denial, i could not belive that I could have a mental disorder so i though it was just temprary. Then, through highschool, symptoms just kept getting worse and worse.  Anxiety took over my life.  There is no doubt in my mind that I have OCD now) I am in 16 now 

I want to tell my parents that I have OCD, but i am afraid of friends finding out and making fun of me, or maybe thinking that I am weird.  I am also afraid to see a doctor and if I would have to take medication. 

[themower]

Also, if i have a mental health issue, I fear that i wont be able to get a job in the future. 

[sarahgotsissues]

As far as the job thing is concerned, employers would only know about it if you chose to tell them.
It is important that you tell someone who you feel comfortable with. It really sucks to do it alone.

-Sarah
 

[ocdengineer]

You really should tell your parents the truth.  I am sure they have their suspicions anyway, so just being up front with them would help you in the long run.  If they don't take it well then you have lost nothing.  However if they support you through this, it will really help.  I think you probably should see an anxiety disorder specialist and see what they have to offer.  At your age Cognitive Behavioral Therapy could really help, so consider that before medication.  Medication should be a last resort, but, unfortunately most people with OCD end up taking some sort of medication to help with the anxiety portion of the disorder.  I take Xanax for the anxiety and practice meditation to reteach my brain how to avoid obsessions.  I also did a lot of reading.  If you are interested in a great fictional novel, check out "Sidhartha" by Herman Hesse, but definitely read "Stop Obsessing" and "Brain Lock".

Good luck,
OE

[retrogurl88]

themower, don't be ashamed to tell your parents.  By reaching out and admitting you have a problem is the first step towards recovery.  Doing this builds up a support channel, because we can't always get through rough patches in our life alone.  Yes, they will probably send you to a doctor but medication is not the only option.  You may find that some form of behavior therapy works for you.  So cheer up and good luck, in whatever you decide.