Fear of diseases

by Winston
(India)

I was trying to find a solution to my problem when I came upon your site.

The problem that I have is a strong fear of diseases. I developed it more than a decade ago. I'm 32.

The symptoms go like this: I cannot use public toilets, for fear of getting contaminated. I therefore avoid any long journeys. I cannot stay in hotels. If ever I was forced to do this, it would cause me great anxiety. Again, if I am on a public place, and if someone coughs or sneezes, I am in big trouble.

Of course I sought medical help, and the case was identified as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and I was given medication. I tried it for a year or so, but without any result.

Now I have other problems. When I am home, and if I keep the windows open, I get a feeling that there is someone outside, and I feel that he throws something like wastes on me. I even get actual feeling of something falling on me. I therefore take extra care to keep all the windows closed from evening onwards.

I cannot say how difficult it is for me to live with this kind of thoughts troubling me all the time. Any help is much appreciated.

Thanks.