My obsessive-compulsive disorder is taking over my life

DEAR DEIDRE: Every time I leave my house, I have to religiously and repeatedly check that all my lights, appliances, and radiators are off.

No matter how hard I try I can’t stop myself from obsessing and it’s taking over my life.

I’m a 47-year-old married woman, with three children and I’ve been checking things for as long as I can remember.

Every time I leave the house I’m constantly worried and on edge. The only thing that gives me peace is by checking everything, at least three or four times.