Case Profile: Sarthak Arya

Name: Sarthak Arya

Age: 21 years
Date of Birth: January 15, 2003
Place of Birth: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Gender: Male
Number of Siblings: One older sister
Birth Order: Second
Height: 5'8" (173 cm)
Weight: 70 kg
Religion: Hinduism
Caste: Brahmin
Educational Qualification: Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) graduate
Institute Associated With: Delhi University
Place of Education: New Delhi, India
Diagnosis: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

History of Present Illness:

Sarthak, a 21-year-old male, presents with symptoms consistent with Obsessive-Compulsive

Disorder (OCD), which have persisted for the past 13 years. The patient reports frequent
intrusive thoughts that are distressing in nature, primarily focused on common obsessions,
like - contamination, safety, symmetry, etc... In response to these thoughts, Sarthak engages
in repetitive compulsive behaviours, such as e.g., excessive hand washing, checking,
arranging objects, counting, etc., which temporarily relieve the anxiety.

The onset of symptoms was gradual, but they have significantly worsened in the past 2years,
particularly affecting daily functioning. Sarthak reports spending [6 hours] on compulsive
rituals, leading to disruptions in [work, personal relationships, school, etc.]. He has been
avoiding certain activities or places due to fear of triggering obsessions.

Sarthak has tried managing the symptoms on his own but finds them overwhelming and
interfering with his quality of life. He has not been able to maintain his usual level of
productivity at work/school and has become increasingly withdrawn from social activities
due to embarrassment or fear of judgement.

Family History:

 Sarthak belongs to a nuclear family in Mumbai. His father is a banker, and his mother
is a homemaker. Sarthak's sister, who is three years older, is a software engineer.
Sarthak's relationship with his family is generally positive, though his OCD has
caused some strain, particularly with his sister, who struggles to understand his
compulsions.
 There is no known history of psychiatric disorders in the family. However, Sarthak's
perfectionistic tendencies and heightened sensitivity to stress may have contributed to
 the development of his OCD. His parents are supportive but sometimes find it
difficult to cope with the demands of his condition.

17. When It Was First Noticed:

 Sarthak's symptoms began to manifest at around age 5, shortly before he was

diagnosed at age 6. His parents noticed that he was unusually meticulous, insisting on
washing his hands frequently and arranging his toys in specific patterns. These
behaviours were initially thought to be quirks, but as they became more rigid and
distressing for Sarthak, his parents sought professional help.

18. Causes:

 The exact cause of Sarthak’s OCD is multifactorial. It is believed to be a combination

of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including high expectations and
stress during his early childhood. The pressure to excel in school, coupled with a
tendency towards perfectionism, likely exacerbated his symptoms.

19. Characteristics:

a) Physical:

 Sarthak is physically healthy, with no significant abnormalities. He maintains a

normal height and weight for his age, though his hands occasionally show signs of
irritation due to frequent washing, a common compulsion associated with his OCD.

b) Sensory/Motor Coordination:

 Sarthak's motor coordination is generally intact. However, he may exhibit slight

tremors or restlessness, particularly when he is anxious or unable to perform his
compulsive rituals. His sensory processing is otherwise normal.

c) Concept Formation:

 Sarthak is highly intelligent and capable of understanding complex abstract concepts,

which is reflected in his academic achievements in psychology. However, his
obsessive thoughts sometimes disrupt his ability to focus on tasks, leading to periods
of academic difficulty.

d) Self-Help Skills:

 Sarthak is relatively independent in his daily activities, though his OCD can interfere
with his ability to maintain routines. For example, his compulsions related to
cleanliness can make simple tasks like getting dressed or leaving the house time-
consuming and stressful.

e) Academic Skills:

 Sarthak was an exceptional student throughout school, consistently achieving top

grades. However, his OCD has impacted his concentration and performance at times,
 particularly during periods of heightened anxiety. Despite these challenges, he
remains committed to his studies and has a strong interest in pursuing a career in
clinical psychology.

f) Interpersonal Skills:

 Sarthak has a close-knit group of friends who are understanding of his condition.
However, he sometimes struggles with forming new relationships due to his fear of
judgment and rejection. His interpersonal interactions are generally positive, but his
compulsions can occasionally create barriers to deeper connections.

20. Management:

 Sarthak is currently undergoing treatment for OCD, which includes a combination of

cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication. The CBT focuses on exposure
and response prevention (ERP) techniques to help Sarthak manage his compulsions.
He also attends regular counselling sessions to address the emotional and social
aspects of his condition.

Preliminary Information:
Sarthak Arya is a bright and motivated 21-year-old student currently pursuing a degree in
psychology at the University of Mumbai. Diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
(OCD) at the age of 6, Sarthak has spent most of his life learning to manage his symptoms.
His interest in psychology stems from his personal experiences with mental health, and he is
determined to use his knowledge to help others facing similar challenges.

Despite the difficulties posed by his OCD, Sarthak has maintained strong academic
performance and is well-regarded by his peers and professors. However, his condition has
also led to periods of intense stress and social withdrawal, particularly during exams or when
his symptoms flare up.

Sarthak is deeply aware of the impact OCD has on his life and is committed to his treatment.
He actively participates in therapy and is open about his condition with those close to him.
His journey is one of resilience, and he hopes to contribute to the field of mental health in the
future by becoming a clinical psychologist.

Timeline 1: Educational and Career Development

2003 (Age 1): Birth - Sarthak Arya was born.

2008 (Age 5): Started School - Sarthak began his formal education.
2014 (Age 11): Interest in Psychology - Sarthak developed an interest in psychology,
influenced by his own experiences with OCD.
2020 (Age 17): Chose Psychology Stream - In high school, Sarthak chose to study
psychology with the goal of pursuing a career in clinical psychology.
2021 (Age 18): Started University - Sarthak enrolled in the University of Mumbai to study
psychology.
2024 (Age 21): Current Year - Sarthak continues his education, focusing on mental health
and preparing for graduate studies in clinical psychology.

Timeline 2: Family Relationships

2003 (Age 1): Birth of Sarthak Arya - Second child in the family.
2005 (Age 3): Growing Independence - Sarthak began to show signs of independence, but his
OCD symptoms also started to emerge around this time.
2014 (Age 11): Strain in Family Dynamics - Sarthak's compulsions began to create tension
within the family, particularly with his sister.
2020 (Age 17): Increased Family Support - As Sarthak’s condition became more understood,
his family became more supportive, though challenges remained.
2024 (Age 21): Current Year - Sarthak’s relationship with his family has improved, though
his condition continues to pose challenges, particularly in his relationship with his sister.

Timeline 3: Behavioural and Emotional Development

2008 (Age 5): Early Signs of OCD - Sarthak’s compulsive behaviours, such as hand washing
and repetitive checking, began to emerge.
2009 (Age 6): Diagnosis of OCD - Sarthak was diagnosed with OCD and began treatment.
2017 (Age 14): Increased OCD Symptoms - Sarthak experienced a worsening of his
symptoms during adolescence, leading to more intensive therapy.
2020 (Age 17): Emotional Struggles - Sarthak faced significant emotional challenges,
including anxiety and depression, related to his OCD.
2024 (Age 21): Current Year - Sarthak continues to manage his OCD with therapy and
medication, showing resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

Timeline 4: Social and Peer Interactions

2008 (Age 5): First Close Friendships - Sarthak formed his first close friendships in school,
though his OCD sometimes created barriers.
2012 (Age 9): Shift in Social Preferences - Sarthak began to prefer solitude due to the social
challenges posed by his OCD.
2017 (Age 14): Limited Social Interaction - Sarthak’s social circle became smaller as his
OCD symptoms increased.
2020 (Age 17): Increased Isolation - Sarthak experienced periods of social withdrawal due to
his condition.
2024 (Age 21): Current Year - Sarthak maintains a small group of close friends who
understand his condition, though he remains cautious about forming new relationships.

Family Tree:

Sarthak’s family consists of his father, mother, and older sister. His father works in banking,
and his sister is a software engineer. The family lives together in Mumbai, where they have a
supportive but sometimes strained dynamic due to Sarthak’s OCD.

Family Arrangement:
Sarthak lives with his parents and sister in a nuclear family setting in Mumbai. The close-knit
arrangement provides both support

Advantages of a Nuclear Family According to Sarthak

1. Privacy and Independence:

o Sarthak appreciates the privacy and independence that a nuclear family
provides. He feels that living in a smaller family unit allows him to have more
personal space and autonomy, which is important for managing his OCD
rituals without feeling judged by extended family members.
2. Stronger Parent-Child Bond:
o Sarthak values the close bond he shares with his parents, which he believes is
easier to maintain in a nuclear family. The focused attention from his parents
helps him feel supported, especially when dealing with his mental health
challenges.
3. Better Financial Stability:
o In Sarthak's view, a nuclear family can be more financially stable, with fewer
dependents to care for. This allows for better allocation of resources, which
can be directed towards his education and medical needs.
4. Simpler Decision-Making:
o Sarthak finds that decision-making is simpler in a nuclear family, with fewer
opinions to consider. This is especially beneficial when it comes to managing
his treatment plan and lifestyle choices, as it reduces potential conflicts.

Disadvantages of a Nuclear Family According to Sarthak

1. Limited Emotional Support:

o Sarthak sometimes feels the absence of extended family members, who could
provide additional emotional support. In a nuclear family, he perceives the
burden of his OCD falling heavily on his parents and sister, which can strain
their relationships.
2. Increased Pressure on Parents:
o He notices that his parents, particularly his mother, often feel overwhelmed by
the responsibility of managing his condition. In a larger family, these
responsibilities might be shared among more people, reducing the pressure on
any one individual.
3. Isolation and Social Withdrawal:
o Sarthak’s nuclear family structure can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation,
especially during his social withdrawal phases. With fewer people around, he
lacks the social interactions that might naturally occur in a joint family setting,
potentially exacerbating his condition.
4. Less Exposure to Diverse Perspectives:
o He recognizes that living in a nuclear family means fewer interactions with a
variety of relatives, which might limit his exposure to different viewpoints and
coping strategies that could be beneficial in managing his OCD.

Medical History of Sarthak Arya's Family

Paternal Side:
 1. Grandfather (Age 75):
o Condition: Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes.
o Details: Diagnosed with hypertension at age 60 and Type 2 Diabetes at age
65. Both conditions are managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
2. Grandmother (Age 72):
o Condition: Osteoarthritis.
o Details: Diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her late 60s, affecting her knees and
mobility. She manages her condition with physical therapy and pain relief
medications.
3. Father (Age 48):
o Condition: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
o Details: Diagnosed in his early 40s. Manages with a combination of
medication and therapy. His anxiety often manifests as excessive worrying
about family matters, which might have contributed to Sarthak's own anxiety
and OCD.

Maternal Side:

1. Grandfather (Age 74):

o Condition: Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).
o Details: Suffered a mild heart attack at age 68. He underwent angioplasty and
has been on heart medications and a strict diet since then.
2. Grandmother (Age 70):
o Condition: Depression.
o Details: Diagnosed with depression following the death of her son when she
was in her 50s. She has been on antidepressants and receives occasional
therapy.
3. Mother (Age 45):
o Condition: Hypothyroidism.
o Details: Diagnosed at age 40. She manages her condition with daily thyroid
hormone replacement therapy. She also experiences mild anxiety, which she
manages through lifestyle adjustments.

Sibling:

1. Younger Sister (Age 18):

o Condition: No significant medical history.
o Details: Currently in good health with no diagnosed chronic conditions.
Occasionally experiences stress related to academics, but it is manageable and
does not require medical intervention.

Sarthak Arya (Age 21):

1. Condition: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

o Details: Diagnosed at age 6. He has undergone various treatments, including
cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. His OCD manifests in
rituals and compulsive behaviors, primarily related to cleanliness and order.
2. Condition: Seasonal Allergies.
o Details: Sarthak experiences mild seasonal allergies, particularly in spring,
which are managed with over-the-counter antihistamines.
Analysis:

The medical history of Sarthak's family indicates a potential genetic predisposition to

anxiety-related disorders on his father's side, which could have influenced the development of
his OCD. The presence of depression on his maternal side also suggests a familial
vulnerability to mental health conditions. This history is significant in understanding
Sarthak's mental health and can help guide his treatment plan.

Socioeconomic Status (SES) of Sarthak Arya

Mother's Education and Occupation:

 Education: Master’s Degree in Psychology.

 Occupation: Senior Psychologist at a private clinic.

Father's Education and Occupation:

 Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

 Occupation: Senior Engineer at a multinational automotive company.

Family Income:

 Income Level: Upper-middle class.

 Details: The combined income from both parents provides a comfortable lifestyle.
The family is financially stable, with the ability to afford quality healthcare,
education, and other amenities.

House Type:

 Type: 3-bedroom apartment in a suburban area.

 Location: Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi, India.
 Details: The apartment is located in a well-maintained residential complex with
amenities like a gym, swimming pool, and playground, reflecting the family's
comfortable economic status.

Number of Family Members:

 Mother: Senior Psychologist.

 Father: Senior Engineer.
 Sibling: One younger sister, aged 18, currently pursuing her undergraduate studies.

Family Lifestyle:

 Standard of Living: The family enjoys a high standard of living, with access to good
healthcare, education, and leisure activities. They own a car and frequently take
vacations, indicating financial security.
 Educational Priorities: Education is highly valued in the family, with both parents
well-educated and encouraging academic achievement in their children. Sarthak’s
younger sister is also pursuing higher education.
Adjustment in the Family:

 Family Dynamics: Sarthak's OCD has created some challenges in family dynamics,
particularly in terms of daily routines and interactions. However, the family is
supportive and has made necessary adjustments to accommodate his needs.
 Emotional Support: The family provides strong emotional support, particularly from
the mother, who, being a psychologist, understands the importance of mental health.
The father, despite his own anxiety issues, remains actively involved in Sarthak’s
care.

Physical Health and Well-being:

 Overall Health: The family maintains a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and
regular physical activity. Regular health check-ups are part of their routine.
 Stress Levels: While the family is generally well-adjusted, there are occasional
stressors related to Sarthak’s OCD and his father’s anxiety, which are managed
through therapy and open communication within the family.

Analysis:

Sarthak Arya’s family enjoys a stable and comfortable socioeconomic status, which plays a
crucial role in his access to quality mental health care and overall well-being. The family's
emphasis on education and health, combined with their financial stability, provides a
supportive environment for Sarthak’s ongoing treatment and management of his OCD.

Interview with the Mother

 Deep Concern and Guilt: Sarthak's mother expresses profound concern about her
son's ongoing struggle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). She feels a deep
sense of guilt, believing she may have overlooked the early signs when he was a
child. She mentions that she initially dismissed his repetitive behaviors as mere
quirks.
 Strained Relationship: Over the years, their relationship has become strained due to
Sarthak's compulsions. She finds it challenging to manage his rituals, especially when
they interfere with daily activities, such as his insistence on checking the locks
multiple times before leaving the house.
 Desire for Normalcy: She longs for Sarthak to have a "normal" life and is worried
about his future, especially his ability to maintain relationships and hold down a job.
The mother feels that his OCD has taken away his youth, and she fears he might not
reach his full potential because of it.
 Supportive but Exhausted: While she is fully supportive of his treatment, she admits
to feeling emotionally and physically exhausted. The constant need to reassure him or
help him navigate his compulsions has taken a toll on her own mental health.

Analysis: The mother’s interview reveals her ongoing emotional struggle and exhaustion in
dealing with Sarthak's OCD. Her feelings of guilt and helplessness indicate a need for family
therapy, where she can receive support and learn strategies to manage her own well-being
while helping her son.
Interview with the Father

 Practical but Distant: Sarthak’s father takes a more practical approach to his son’s
condition, focusing on the logistical aspects of treatment, such as managing
appointments and ensuring medication adherence. However, he admits to feeling
emotionally distant from Sarthak, largely because he struggles to understand the
nature of OCD.
 Frustration: The father expresses frustration with the disorder, particularly with how
it disrupts the family’s routine. He mentions feeling helpless when Sarthak’s
compulsions become overwhelming, such as when Sarthak spends hours washing his
hands, making them raw.
 Concern for Future: He is deeply concerned about Sarthak’s future, especially in
terms of his career. He worries that the OCD will prevent Sarthak from functioning in
a demanding work environment, particularly in the competitive field of commerce.
 Hopeful but Uncertain: While he hopes for improvement, the father is uncertain
about the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. He acknowledges the importance of
therapy but is sceptical about how much it can change Sarthak’s deeply ingrained
behaviours.

Analysis: The father's interview highlights the practical challenges the family faces in
managing Sarthak’s OCD. His emotional distance and scepticism about treatment may be
barriers to fully supporting Sarthak’s recovery, indicating a need for increased involvement in
psychoeducation and family therapy.

Interview with the Sibling (Younger Sister, Age 17)

 Admiration Mixed with Frustration: Sarthak’s younger sister expresses admiration

for her brother’s intelligence and resilience but also admits to feeling frustrated and
overshadowed by his condition. She often feels neglected by their parents, who focus
much of their attention on Sarthak’s needs.
 Involuntary Caregiver Role: She sometimes finds herself in the role of an
involuntary caregiver, helping Sarthak manage his rituals or providing emotional
support during his episodes of anxiety. This has led to feelings of resentment, as she
feels her own needs are often put on hold.
 Strained Sibling Relationship: Their relationship has become strained, with the
sister describing Sarthak as "distant" and "distracted." She misses the closeness they
once had before his OCD worsened, and she feels that the disorder has created a
barrier between them.
 Desire for Normalcy: Like their parents, she yearns for a sense of normalcy in the
household and wishes for a time when her brother’s condition does not dominate the
family’s life.

Analysis: The sibling’s interview reveals the impact of Sarthak’s OCD on the family
dynamics, particularly the feelings of neglect and resentment experienced by his sister.
Addressing these feelings through family therapy could help improve their relationship and
support her emotional well-being.
Interview with a Close Friend (College Peer)

 Understanding but Concerned: Sarthak’s close friend from college is understanding

of his condition but expresses concern about its impact on their social life and studies.
He has noticed that Sarthak’s compulsions, such as repeatedly checking his work or
avoiding certain locations on campus, have led to missed deadlines and social
isolation.
 Supportive Role: The friend often finds himself in a supportive role, encouraging
Sarthak to seek help and reminding him to take breaks from his rituals. However, he
admits to feeling out of his depth at times, unsure of how best to help Sarthak when he
is in distress.
 Social Withdrawal: He observes that Sarthak has become more socially withdrawn
over the past few years, avoiding gatherings and spending more time alone. This has
affected their friendship, as they now spend less time together outside of class.
 Hopeful for Recovery: Despite the challenges, the friend is hopeful that with
continued treatment, Sarthak can regain control over his life. He is committed to
supporting Sarthak but recognizes that professional help is essential for long-term
improvement.

Analysis: The friend’s interview highlights the social challenges Sarthak faces due to his
OCD, including withdrawal and missed opportunities. The friend’s supportive but limited
role suggests that Sarthak could benefit from social skills training and therapy focused on
building healthy peer relationships.

Observation About Sarthak Arya

Sarthak Arya, a 21-year-old commerce graduate, has been managing Obsessive-Compulsive

Disorder (OCD) since the age of 6. His condition has significantly shaped his life, affecting
his daily routines, social interactions, and academic journey.

Key Observations:

1. Resilience and Self-Awareness:

o Sarthak demonstrates a remarkable level of resilience and self-awareness
regarding his condition. He acknowledges the challenges posed by his OCD
and actively engages in strategies to manage his symptoms. His commitment
to therapy and adherence to routines suggest a strong desire to maintain
control over his life.
2. Impact on Daily Life:
o OCD has a pervasive influence on Sarthak's daily life. He experiences
intrusive thoughts and compulsions that often disrupt his routines. However,
he has developed coping mechanisms, such as structured routines and rituals,
to help manage his anxiety. While these routines provide comfort, they also
limit his flexibility and spontaneity.
3. Social Interaction:
o Sarthak’s social interactions are affected by his OCD. He tends to be cautious
in social settings, fearing judgment or triggering situations. Despite this, he
maintains close relationships with his family and a few trusted friends who
 understand and support him. His ability to sustain these relationships reflects
his effort to stay connected, even though his condition poses challenges.
4. Family Dynamics:
o Sarthak's relationship with his family is both supportive and complex. His
parents, particularly his mother, play a crucial role in his management of
OCD. The family has adapted to accommodate his needs, but the condition has
also introduced stress and adjustments within the household. The family’s
understanding and proactive approach to his mental health are critical in his
ongoing management.
5. Academic and Career Path:
o Despite the challenges posed by OCD, Sarthak has successfully completed his
education in commerce. His academic journey was marked by perseverance,
although his condition may have hindered his performance at times. Sarthak’s
career aspirations in finance reflect his logical and detail-oriented nature, traits
that align with his condition but may also contribute to his anxiety.
6. Mental Health Management:
o Sarthak is actively involved in managing his OCD, attending regular therapy
sessions and following a medication regimen. His willingness to seek help and
engage in treatment is a positive indicator of his commitment to improving his
mental health. However, the long-term nature of his condition means that
ongoing support and treatment will be necessary.

Overall Analysis:

Sarthak Arya is a resilient young man who has navigated the challenges of OCD with
determination. His condition, while pervasive, has not defined him; instead, he has used his
self-awareness and the support of his family to build a structured life. While OCD presents
ongoing challenges, Sarthak's proactive approach to his mental health, coupled with his
strong family support system, positions him well to continue managing his condition and
pursuing his career goals.

Suggestion:

1. Family Involvement:

 Sarthak's recovery could benefit from increased family involvement, particularly in

understanding the nature of his OCD. Family therapy sessions could help improve
communication and reduce the strain that his condition has placed on relationships,
especially with his sister.

2. Psychiatric Support:

 Continued psychiatric support is essential, including regular reviews of his medication

and ongoing CBT sessions. Sarthak would also benefit from mindfulness-based
therapies to help manage anxiety and reduce the impact of obsessive thoughts.

3. Academic Support:
 Collaboration with his university is important to ensure that Sarthak receives the
necessary accommodations to succeed academically. This might include flexible
deadlines, exam accommodations, and support from academic advisors who are aware
of his condition.