- Date posted
- 1y
ERP
I have contamination OCD. How am I supposed to do ERP when I feel like there’s poison everywhere? I can’t live like this anymore but ERP is terrifying to me.
I have contamination OCD. How am I supposed to do ERP when I feel like there’s poison everywhere? I can’t live like this anymore but ERP is terrifying to me.
I hear you. When first thinking about ERP, it was so scary for me, too. But, you don’t start with your biggest fears. You start with your smallest. The same goes for anything challenging we do in life, just start with baby steps. So when I first started with ERP, we listed out my triggers and I didn’t start any exposures until i had found a trigger that was only a level 2 or 3 distressing (out of 10). I promise you that you can do this. Always happy to chat if you have any other questions. 💖
@emilytravelswild Oh I’d love to chat more. I’ve had OCD my whole life…same theme. I’ve attempted ERP numerous times, but can’t seem to get past “level 5” on my hierarchy. I’ve had the same thoughts for so long that they feel absolutely real and true to me. Thank you for responding!
@Dutchgirl Are you on Instagram? I just found a super helpful post that I could send you! I’m @ebdesignagency
@emilytravelswild Yes! I will find you there!
You can approach erp sessions in increments. Depends what you're comfortable with. I jumped head first into it every time and it was stressful as hell. It's going to be hard either way so you choose where you want to start with your therapist. It's not a race. Progress is still progress
I struggle with contamination OCD severely too and am going to start erp, it scares tf out of me so I understand! I specifically struggle with emetophobia (the fear of throwing up) I can’t even restart me anxiety meds because I’m so worried it’s going to make me nauseous because I’m constantly looking up the side affects. I honestly can’t give you advice on ERP as I haven’t started mine yet, but I can let you know that I know how you’re feeling.
@Anonymous Thanks for sharing. Good luck to you too.
What would I do for ERP if my OCD says because I didn’t do something correctly or remember something I will have panic attacks that don’t end?
Does anyone have any tips that helped them? Mine is due to a specific person and I work with them so it’s been really difficult. I’ve started ERP which has been reaaalllllly challenging and I would love to hear from anyone else that has gone through any type of contamination ocd and how they have overcome or are fighting their way through it. Thank you!l
I’m thinking about doing erp but my ocd is so severe the thought of accepting my fears happening to me makes me sick to my stomach. I also believe in the power of my words and saying I accept this Bad thing will attract it into my life. I’m not sure what I should do🥲
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