Adult friend with serious OCD issues. Do I say anything?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here, as for labeling it OCD, the reason I'm calling it that is because after reading so many mant sites on the condition she seems to meet most of the traits. As for what she really has, that's beside the point.

Either way she needs help before it ruins her life and marriage. I'll be spending some time with her in a few days so hopefully the right time comes up.

OP, I was truly shocked when my doctor pointed out to me that my behaviors were indicative of OCD. It had just been my regular way of living for my whole life. She honestly may not know that there are medications and therapies that can help.

PP here. But it's one thing if a medical professional points it out. It's another if a friend tells you. I think that OP should avoid diagnosing her friend and stick to giving her information. "I read this article [insert article on a woman who exhibits similar behaviors and how she found help], and I thought you might find it helpful. I just want you to be happy. I could be wrong, but I just wanted to give you this article. I won't bring it up again unless you do." and leave it at that.

[Anonymous]

Whoa! No one is encouraging OP to engage in a confrontation with her friend or pass along what she's heard from husband and friends.

She can start with an observation like: "I notice you seem to have to do a lot of checking before you can leave the house." And then wait for her friend to respond. She can take clues from her friend's response to proceed tactfully from there.

If she laughs her off, that's a cue to back away. But if she says something like "I know I just can't seem to help myself from checking over and over again and it makes me late for everything," PP can take it from there.