Quick question... does anyone know if ERP can help with fear of dying or someone close to you dying? The thoughts consume me from the time I wake up until I sleep. I've always considered myself a woman of faith. Then I think to myself "If My Faith Was Strong, I Wouldn't Even Worry"... and then I start thinking that God is disappointed with me. I've had extreme panic attacks since I was young. It's controlled by rescue med. I've been on antidepressants. I know when I'm on the right one, the need for rescue med decreases. Am I alone in this fear? Does ERP help?

cmac1339

8d ago

ERP will help you. Doesn’t seem like it now, but it will.

Andi44

8d ago

Thank you for replying. I'm just learning about ERP. Is there a certain type of Dr I should seek?

cmac1339

8d ago

@Andi44 Definitely an ocd specialist (therapist)

Andi44

8d ago

@cmac1339 Thank you very much for your suggestion.

Natasha7

8d ago

Yess I get the same it’s soo bad :(( and I get blasphemous ones toward god like trying to contest with him that he’s not gonna do it

Andi44

8d ago

I understand, it's such a battle of our thoughts. I didn't think any erp could help because ultimately it's the exposure that assists with getting the relief. I'm so confused on what kind of exposure for those thoughts could be....but I'm so willing to try anything!

ocdandcoffee

8d ago

the thought of dying or my loved ones dying is on my mind all day too. i wish it wasn’t. it’s so scary and tiring.

Catperson10

8d ago

I didn't know this was part of ocd but more and more symptoms I have are adding up. I'm sorry you have this but thank you for commenting!

Lms526

7d ago

I have a major fear of loved ones dying. I freak out when my parents tell me they are going for a drive, but especially if they are taking a vacation. If I text and they don't answer right away, I panic and imagine the worst. It basically doesn't stop until they are home again. They usually go to Florida for 2 weeks in February. So if they go next year, it will be interesting to see if anything changes. ERP works regardless of the theme you are dealing with.

Jesse Miller

5d ago

I am someone who has gone through the NOCD program and I am now in the recovery phase of treatment. I am also advocating every day on the app for people with OCD. I feared everyday that I would die or someone I love will die. I still do! But what I’ve learned is to not give into compulsions and not try to reassurance seek or avoid the thoughts. I’ve learned to give acceptance to what my OCD is - just fears that do not need answers. You’ll still have days where you will worry about death, and that is ok! Just don’t give in to compulsions. Accept that these are thoughts.