- User type
- OCD Conqueror
- Date posted
- 2y
3rd ERP…
Anybody else super anxious when you move up the next level on the hierarchy?
Anybody else super anxious when you move up the next level on the hierarchy?
Yes. You can do it.
Yes, it that’s normal! Push through the nerves 👏🏻❤️
@Nica I’m pushing! I’ve been in a heightened anxiety state since I did it today.
But you did it. That’s great.
I think that it's quite normal to feel that way when you're in ERP therapy, and I have felt that way before too when I was moving up to the next level on the hierarchy. It is normal to have good days and bad days during therapy - you are working so hard to create a better pattern with the thoughts and you are going to get super anxious sometimes. The more you challenge OCD with exposures, the more you are showing yourself "I can do this". Remember to always be kind and patient with yourself on this journey. You are always doing the best you can and we are going to be here for you every step of the way!
@Anonymous Thank you!❤️
@Rcope09 - You're welcome, I'm always happy to help!
So you got to ask me anything… Now I’d like to ask you something! I’ve heard from Members that they were so scared coming to their first ERP session. They were terrified that I would think they were crazy, that I would tell them their worst fears were true. That I would confirm they are some form of a terrible person or have them hauled off to prison for their thoughts. I’ve also had Members share how they’re very scared to begin ERP treatment because they’ve researched enough to know it means facing the fear, without the compulsions that have kept them feeling safe (but not really safe) this entire time. They struggled to see how they could be capable of doing this, while simultaneously acknowledging that they did not want to live like this anymore. If you have had your first session, what were your thoughts before? Did you have any hesitations or fears going into it? How did it turn out? If you haven’t yet begun to work with an ERP specialist, what is holding you back?
I find while doing exposures, rarely does my anxiety lessen. It usually amps up and stays that way for the remainder of the day. I could be having a fairly decent day, but dutifully do my exposures and then the rest of my day is anxiety filled. I guess that’s just how it is now? Also, I’m wondering if my therapist even believes I have OCD. I totally understand my therapist cannot provide reassurance. But it’s to the point it seems my therapist acts like I actually did the thing I fear. I feel so isolated.
Everytime I do exposure therapy and even if it ends up good I get more nervous for the next time. How do I get past this I really need some help please. Now I am scared to even move the car after I drove on the main road 2 days ago.
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