do we have a mental health professional in the house?

[aimeefarrahfowler]

deleted for privacy reasons

[meow84]

Sounds like pretty classic OCD. She would never intentionally do those things but for whatever reason it triggers her anxiety to think WHAT IF she could. I've seen that manifestation a lot actually. With her severity, chances are it won't go away on its own. Would she be more open to seeing a medical doctor first? They might recommend meds and therapy. Sometimes it's easier for people to hear it from a doctor they know/trust.

[aimeefarrahfowler]

meow84, thanks for your advice. I wasn't even thinking of OCD, but that does make sense, knowing her. I don't think she ever goes to the doctor except when she's pregnant. I don't think she even has a primary care doctor.

[bantyrooster]

Sounds like ocd anxiety. It probably started pp and never got addressed and it got worse. I feel bad for her. She does need help. Maybe as a family you could let her know she would not be ignored if she got help. She doesn't have to announce to the community that she is on meds or getting help. I hate that so many suffer in silence because of the stigma. I was just like her though. The label sucks.

[trixi282]

I agree with the other ladies, it's definitely not normal. And although she knows it's not normal, she keeps dwelling and stressing over it to the point that it is affecting her daily life.

If she does go to her OB or any GP, I think maybe you should encourage her H to go with her to an appointment and bring it up. Because it sounds like she would never willingly bring it up on her own. At least your MIL is with her during the day, but at the same time, it's not the best for her and the family as a whole if she keeps having these irrational fears/situations pop up in her mind on a daily basis.

[bliz1712]

I can't imagine how these constant worries would start to affect the children? Kids pick up on stuff like you wouldn't believe so if she's constantly expressing how she's afraid of stuff it might in turn make them afraid or anxious of stuff. Maybe coming at it from that direction will give her the push to do something or see someone.