Contamination OCD

I dont know what you mean by "response prevention messages", when we are doing exposures we feel anxious, we have to allow that feeling to be there without trying to suppress it in anyway. Why not eat and drink? Behavd as much you can as the peoole around you instead of satisfying your OCD. When the anxiety rises, you can if you need go the restroom or go for a short walk, take deep breaths and be kind to yourself, because this is a challenge for you, a big one, but if you will enjoy life you have to act in a new way without all these rituals. I wish you strength and a merry Christmas!

It sounds like you’re looking for additional tips on how to allow joy, while also maybe being triggered? I think this is exactly what ERP is trying to teach us….but let me think 🤔…besides being present and mindful of fear based thoughts so you can redirect them maybe it may help to remember your why, why you want to do this exposure and why you want to do ERP today so you can remain feeling empowered vs the exposure is happening to me. Also, maybe prioritize what will keep you present and engaging - so if you’re finding yourself getting stuck in rumination b/c you want to do a compulsion maybe this isn’t going to be the day you challenge that trigger. Also, give effort to thoughts that generate good feelings. For example, going to the doctors is triggering for me, while sitting in the waiting room full of people instead of just letting the noise of contamination thoughts start to flood me, I actively think thoughts such as “isn’t it beautiful everyone here is taking care of themselves.” And then I think compassionate thoughts, and send everyone love in my head. I very much suffer from contamination OCD, and will also be gathering with family. I accept there may be more stress than joy but I know being present is how I can get some little moments of joy. Also, here is a thought b/c food can bring joy, if there is a store bought drink or cookies - something you really enjoy maybe it’s worth going for it, it can turn on some happy chemicals and you may be surprised that you’re able to handle it. It will need to be something very accessible so you’re not super triggered. I find witnessing my strength and my progress can be such a high!!