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About Richard Niemeyer
Expertise
I can answer questions related to obsessions and compulsions, troubling and intrusive thoughts, and treatment techniques and relevant OCD research. I can answer questions related to the causes of OCD and intrusive thoughts and other related OCD theories. I can answer questions regarding the neurological mechanisms of anti-anxiety medications. I can also answer OCD questions of a religious nature (Christian). I cannot give suggestions on which medications to take, as I am not a medical doctor. I cannot answer questions related to hoarding.
Experience
I have experience working in the mental health and mental rehabilitation field. Intrusive thoughts and OCD were a primary area of study for me during graduate school.
Organizations
American Psychological Association
National Association of Social Workers
Education/Credentials
Master of Social Work- University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Science in Bible- Philadelphia Biblical University
Licensed Social Worker- State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors (Pennsylvania)
Past/Present Clients
I have worked with clients diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive disorder and other anxiety disorders
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You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Mental Health > OCD - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder > Inner Turmoil
Expert: Richard Niemeyer - 11/4/2009
Question
For the record, I have Asperger's. But, I will admit, I wash my hands about googol times a day and worry about things most other people wouldn't. For example, the risk of lead poisoning. I think that me and anyone near me is in danger. Recently, a sibling (very briefly)touched a plastic box in which Christmas decorations are stored. I know our lights contain lead. Said sibling did not wash their hands afterward and I think the hands in question went unwashed for hours. We went to a shindig, ate, and did other stuff, yet the whole lead poisoning thing is driving me nuts. I don't want to have lead on ANYTHING to be honest. My question is, are we in danger. Could it be that I'm slowly getting poisoned and for that matter, everyone else? Or am I letting my imagination get the best of me?
Answer
Hi Erick,
Thanks for your question,
I do have to admit that I'm not an expert on lead poisoning, but from my understanding, a large amount of lead based product has to be ingested for there to be a problem. There has been a fair amount of news media lately regarding lead products in children's toys. The concern regarding these toys is that children often suck on, chew and bite the toys they play with, potentially increasing their exposure to ingesting lead based elements. It does not mean that children who suck on, chew and bite these toys will develop problems, but may be at an increased risk. Also, it may be helpful to remember that these toys, or other items highlighted in the news, are not made of lead, but were found to contain small amounts of lead in some of the ingredients, be it the paint, or plastic, or other components. Therefore, the risk of exposure would be in a totally different category from someone who handles the actual periodic element.
It may be helpful for you to do a little research on lead and led poisoning. To get an accurate analysis of risks. Something that people with OCD tendencies are notorious for is called catastrophizing a situation, meaning they see the worst possible scenario or outcome in every situation. Different people get latched onto different risks. . . some people can't drive a car because of an extreme fear of crashing, or causing someone else to crash, some people can't hold a baby because of an extreme fear of dropping the baby, while others can't handle certain items because of an extreme fear of becoming contaminated. While there is risk in any activity we do, (even staying in bed all day is statistically more dangerous then flying in an airplane) it is so easy for people to exaggerate that risk and dwell on only the worst possible outcome.
I doubt that your fear of lead was your first and only fear of becoming contaminated with something. Usually, when one fear goes away, another one comes to take its place. Therefore, it's often helpful to treat the condition, rather then just the symptoms. i.e. treat your anxiety and ocd tendencies, rather then just treating your fear of lead. It may be very helpful for you to seek out some therapy so you don't have to continue washing your hands a googol times a day and worry about things that other people may not worry about. There are also some great self help books at Borders or Barns and Noble that specifically address your habits of washing and worrying. I would encourage you to brows through those sections.
Good luck to you. Remember, you can get help with these issues, but it will take you actively pursuing that help. It won't get better on its own.
Take care, Rich
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