- Username
- we-need-a-therapist
- Date posted
- 2y ago
I'm on same page as you
I always tell myself look how long I’ve been ruminating on this. Nothings changed. I can stop for an hour or two. That usually keeps it away even if it pops up I just agree with it
By doing the opposite of what your OCD tells you to do.
Some great responses here so far! Yes!! ERP!!! Sometimes it can almost feel like we eat, breathe and sleep ERP! lol. I also thing making a list of your values and what you wish for your life and your future is important. That way when OCD does sneak in or when you are having a hard time with ERP/OCD you can easily remember why you are doing this and what is important to you. If you need help with a therapist and learning ERP make a call to NOCD and see how they can help you.
ERP, friend! I know it probably sounds like a broken record around here, but it really is so helpful. There is a lot to do to support your recovery, but at the end of the day, facing the things that OCD uses to derail you is a proven method of finding healing and getting your life back. It doesn't make it go away, but it makes it manageable. If you aren't already enrolled in therapy through NOCD, I highly recommend it. The therapists are all trained in ERP and hear it all! They will not be fazed by whatever your OCD brings to the table and are eager to help you find your recovery. I also recommend the online groups. You can find one that matches your particular struggle. They are led by therapists and advocates who know what they're doing and you'll be able to meet other people who get it. :) https://www.treatmyocd.com/support-groups
I would say, don't try to "stop" OCD. Remember, a thought is not a prediction, instruction, or call to action. Thoughts just appear. The best way to stop ocd in its tracks is to practice ERP. Don’t try to think about the future of your OCD, make it your goal to do your best in this moment.
How does OCD get in the way of living your life? What are some things you can do to drop the worries?
anyone have advice on how to continue participating in your fave activities, hobbies, ect when you're having specific intrusive thoughts about those exact things that you typically enjoy? ocd has *really* been attacking my special interests, hobbies, work, ect. I usually just push through and let the thoughts happen while I'm doing them anyways, but it gets honestly exhausting.
Hello! While I'm not a doctor, I've lived with OCD for 15 years and have explored many techniques to manage it. Through trial and error, I've discovered strategies that truly work. I'm eager to share this advice, hoping it can ease your struggle, especially in the early stages of treatment. Incorporating these tips can lead to immediate improvements in managing OCD. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. There's a supportive community ready to help, and with the right approach, fear and panic become manageable. OCD is treatable, and it's possible to reclaim your happiness and freedom. My OCD Management Recommendations Based on 15 Years of Experience 1. Seek Professional Help - It is a game-changer, trust me. Professional guidance can provide tailored strategies and support that are crucial for managing OCD effectively. 2. Sleep Well - Quality sleep is foundational for mental health. It helps in managing stress and improving overall well-being. 3. Eat Clean - A balanced diet can significantly affect your mental and physical health. Nutritious foods support brain function and emotional balance. 4. Exercise - Regular physical activity is beneficial for both body and mind. It helps in reducing anxiety and improving mood. 5. Engage Your Brain - Activities like reading books, playing chess, watching quality TV shows and movies, solving crosswords, and puzzles keep your mind engaged and can offer relief from obsessive thoughts. 6. Relax - Incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine. Visit wellness spas, get massages, and meditate. 7. Quit Caffeine - Completely eliminate caffeine from your diet. It can exacerbate anxiety and OCD symptoms, so avoiding it can lead to significant improvements in your mental health. 8. Let Go and Go with Life's Flow - These are just thoughts and emotions. They always come and go. Don't resist them. Don't do anything to push them away. Don't play the OCD game. Don't engage in OCD games in any way. Just simply let them be and let them pass. These are just thoughts and emotions. They always go away. They always pass. 9. Notice that OCD thoughts are synthetic thoughts. They are not your natural, real, or pure thoughts. These thoughts are synthetic, so don't engage with them, don't play this game, don't do anything for them. Just simply acknowledge them, don't do anything, just let them be and let them pass. No matter how you feel, just do your stuff and don't do anything about synthetic thoughts. This is how you will train your body and mind that you're not afraid of it, you can function with it, and OCD will simply lose its power.
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