Feeling guilty about living at home due to OCD—does anyone relate?

Living at Home

I have really great parents, that have helped me every step of the way with my OCD. And when I go through bad periods, I can always rely on them. When I relapse, my OCD prevents me from leaving my bed, which means I can't work, eat or bathe properly, or maintain outside relationships. Therefore, I've moved back in with my folks semi-permanently over the last six years. And as I get into my late twenties (going through another relapse), I start to feel guilty. As if I'm taking advantage of their kindness and mooching off them for free housing. I know that's not true, I would be dead if I couldn't live at home, but does anyone else relate to this?

Username: kikibluekikiblue

User type: OCD Conqueror

Date posted: 2y ago

I had to do this off and on during my entire 20s. Even in my early 30s. I lost my parents at 36 (I just turned 38) and aside from the tremendous grief, I will say, not having that safe place was extremely rough at first (and that’s an understatement). But I got through it and I’m living on my own now with no safety net. Don’t feel shame for where you’re at. Thank them and enjoy the precious time you have with them under the same roof. Just know, you are stronger and more capable than you currently feel you are. 💗

Username: egg19egg19

Date posted: 2y ago

I understand what you are saying. I'm in college and living at home but I do rely a lot on my family for help. Its important to remember that our family loves us and they support us because they care. I hope you're doing better <3

Username: neither_freer neither_freer

Date posted: 2y ago

I’m 26 and live with my parents. I quit my last job due to my OCD and haven’t worked in over two years. I feel like a bum and mooch as well, but honestly the fact that we’re alive is so miraculous and we should take solace in that. Some of us have more limitations than others and that’s okay. Much love to you

Username: UphamiaUphamia

Date posted: 2y ago

I’m 22 and because of my ocd and panic disorder I can’t work (it’s been this way the last few years) and sometimes my ocd latches on to being a burden to my mom because she doesn’t make a lot of money and I can’t financially assist her, but something she’s said that has helped is “I don’t feel any resentment for financially taking care of you still, I just want you to be happy, and it makes me happy to see you happy, so it’s all worth it”. It’s ingrained in our economy to attach value with work, and it’s super unhealthy because we as humans are way bigger than our careers, and we offer so much more than that. Right now the work you do to be alive in this chaotic world and bring love and happiness to your parents is more than enough. It’s never too late to get a job if you want one later, but right now focus on getting better, that’s most important

Username: Chellie

Date posted: 5y ago

How to deal with parents while having severe OCD? I love them a lot but they threaten to kick me out if I disturb their sleep with panic attacks and I can't really control those except for doing compulsions which makes my anxiety worse long term. Which they also aren't happy about. I'm really anxious about this all as my home is my most safe place so to speak, I really don't wanna get kicked out and if anyone has advice I'd love to hear it. (Also meds don't really work much for me unfortunately)

Username: jmr

Date posted: 4y ago

I live in NYC - I’m 29 and was diagnosed with ocd over ten years ago. I came home during quarantine to make sure my parents are okay and spend quality time since we don’t normally get this time. (Please know, I quarantined for over three weeks before seeing them to make sure I wasn’t infecting them) I told them that I am going to go back to my apt in nyc at some point in May and they FREAKED out. There are multiple reasons I would like to be back in my own apartment, but the main one is my ocd is getting worse out here. The routine is crucial and being in my own home is what I think will be mentally the healthiest choice for me. They don’t understand and I’ve tried to explain numerous times. I’m the youngest and will always be the “baby” - even though I’m almost 30. They worry it’s too dangerous, but it’s just as dangerous where we are now as well. I am so lucky I have my parents and that we were able to spend this time together and I love them so much, but I’m an adult and feel I need to set boundaries for what’s best for me. Does this make sense or am I crazy?? Help??!! My brain is out of control right now.

Relationship OCD

Username: emma18

Date posted: 3y ago

Hello everyone. This fall I plan to move out of my parents house and live on my own. I’m extremely nervous about this. I feel like when I’m alone my thoughts and obsessions and anxiety get worse, and also a lot of the times I’m in such a bad place I can’t drive myself anywhere or feel safe anywhere, so I rely on my parents and my friends to drive me places or I won’t get out at all. Is it a bad idea to move out of my childhood home if I can barely do anything without extreme anxiety? I just don’t know what to do. I know I can live here forever and I have to move out eventually, but I feel like I’ll never really be ready.

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Feeling guilty about living at home due to OCD—does anyone relate?

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