Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the condition of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) through the case of an 18-year-old college student, highlighting its symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of family support in the recovery process [1][2][8]. Summary by Sections Definition and Symptoms - OCD is characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that significantly impact daily life, work, and relationships [2]. - Obsessive thoughts are intrusive ideas that cause excessive anxiety, while compulsive behaviors are repetitive actions aimed at reducing this anxiety [2]. Treatment Options - First-line treatments for OCD include medication and psychological therapy. Common medications include fluvoxamine, sertraline, paroxetine, and fluoxetine, while cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most recommended psychological treatment [3]. - Medication typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to show effects, with some initial side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness, which usually subside [3]. - CBT, particularly the exposure and response prevention (ERP) technique, is effective in helping patients manage their anxiety and regain control over their symptoms [5]. Integrated Treatment Approach - The hospital employs an individualized and integrated treatment model that combines medication, psychological therapy, physical therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine to maximize treatment effectiveness [7]. - Patients are encouraged to participate in group therapy and individual sessions to learn coping strategies and become their own therapists [7]. Family Involvement - Family support is crucial in the treatment of OCD, as family members can inadvertently enable the disorder by accommodating the patient's compulsive behaviors [8]. - Education for family members is provided to help them respond appropriately to the patient's symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse after discharge [8]. Additional Treatment Methods - Other treatment methods include physical therapies such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, relaxation techniques, and acupuncture, which complement medication and psychological therapy [9][10]. Recovery Potential - With dedicated effort from both patients and healthcare providers, most individuals with OCD can return to normal life. Long-term commitment to therapy, such as mindfulness practices, can lead to successful outcomes [12].

Core Viewpoint - The article addresses common misconceptions about psychiatry and mental health, emphasizing that mental disorders are a broad category encompassing various conditions beyond just schizophrenia, and that seeking help is a normal and necessary step towards recovery [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12] Misconceptions about Mental Health - Misconception 1: Mental illness is synonymous with schizophrenia, while in reality, it includes a wide range of disorders such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, with schizophrenia being a rare condition at a lifetime prevalence of only 0.6% in China [3] - Misconception 2: Mental illness is a sign of personal weakness; however, it is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, and is linked to brain function abnormalities [4] - Misconception 3: Seeking psychiatric help is shameful; in fact, millions globally seek mental health services, and it is becoming a common health management choice [5][6] - Misconception 4: Only those who have experienced significant trauma develop mental illness; many patients have no history of major stressors, as biological factors often play a more significant role [7] - Misconception 5: Only introverted individuals suffer from depression; in reality, various factors contribute to mental illness, and both introverted and extroverted individuals can be affected [8] - Misconception 6: Depression is merely feeling sad; clinically, it is a serious disorder characterized by persistent low mood and can lead to severe consequences if untreated [9] - Misconception 7: Psychologists and psychiatrists are the same; they have different training and roles, with psychiatrists being medical doctors who can prescribe medication [10][11] - Misconception 8: Psychiatrists only prescribe medication; their role includes comprehensive diagnosis, treatment planning, and the potential for psychological therapy [12]