Urge to check

Yes, I have this same problem. One thing that has helped is that I now set a time limit when it comes to checking the stove. I set a time limit that is still longer than what the average person would take, but shorter than how long it would normally take me. I stick with my limit and start timing myself. So far I have dramatically cut the average time it used to take me; I usually stop well before my time limit is up. I'm also trying to check things like door locks less than usual, then live with the discomfort of not going back to check it again. I'm trying to improve checking ocd little by little till maybe one day my checking will be more "normal".

I do that alot is a normal thing

But its not ideal is hard i know

I’m only “hearting” the two above messages because I feel such a relief from your responses! I’m going to immediately try these ides today and really stick to it. The discomfort really is tough for me bc if I’m home alone I’m okay with the discomfort of things maybe not being locked etc but I’m a single mom and when my sons in the house sleeping there is no room to feel discomfort knowing the stove could be on or the child locks on the door arent on correctly etc.. (there’s like an hour check every night). I’m going to try really hard though today- thank you 🙏🏻

That’s great to hear! Once you are able to do this a few times I think it will make a huge impact and it will get easier. You can do this!