Inside the World of OCD

Overview

Jennifer says that for the past 20 years, she has been suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, and that it rules every aspect of her life. Watch as Jennifer demonstrates how everyday tasks — like preparing food, cleaning furniture and just leaving the house — have become exhausting rituals that take her up to 13 hours to complete. Jennifer reluctantly travels to Dr. Phil with the help of her best friend, Howard. “I don’t want to live with OCD, but I don’t know if I know how to live without it,” Jennifer confesses. Dr. Frank Lawlis, chairman of the Dr. Phil Advisory Board weighs in on Jennifer’s condition and offers treatment. Can she leave her comfort zone in order to get help? Then, Pam and Jack say their 25-year-old son, Michael’s, OCD is so severe that they’re afraid to leave him alone. They say Michael often goes into a trance — the longest lasting 21 hours — during which he screams, curses and punches himself repeatedly. Pam and Jack say they’ve tried multiple treatments and more than 10 different medications, but nothing has helped. Watch as Michael visits leading neuroradiologist Dr. Bradley Jabour, who performs a brain scan to see what’s going on inside Michael’s head. See the fascinating results, and hear Dr. Jabour’s plans for Michael — and Jennifer. Plus, meet Bob, who says Dr. Jabour’s program saved his life. And, log on to DrPhil.com for more information about OCD warning signs and treatments.