Relapse with Pure O

I had sort of an “aha” moment today. I was able to recognize that I was obsessing, and do some behavioral activation. I’m currently taking my dog on a walk! I wanted to sit and listen to my OCD podcast (which can become a compulsion for me, looking for an “instant fix” for whatever current theme I’m experiencing), but now I’m outside. I’m focusing on responding and accepting my obsessive thoughts while on my walk, and accepting my fears. I’m so proud of myself even though it’s hard.

Hey everyone. This the first time I’m commenting or posting. I just joined and I want to say I relate to every single one of you and it makes me feel hopeful.

Super frustrating lol, if it’s not one thing it’s another . But I usually try to change my attitude towards my problem solving even if I have to fake happiness lol. If I notice I’m answering myself too much I’ll stop and take 5 minutes to look around at everything around me and breath. Don’t look for something to “work” just give it time . Be patient with yourself till you naturally calm down

I’m no savant of ocd but we all know time and patient works

Mental compulsions are difficult. when I find myself ruminating, over analyzing, searching for meaning of the thoughts, etc. I tell myself that there is nothing to gain from this and that I am not going to think about this anymore and try my hardest not to. Easier said then done, but over time it helped

Hey Amanda! Also struggling with a Pure O flare up after a period of recovery. This disorder is so strange isn’t it! It’s like one minute you’re completely clear headed and everything makes sense, and then the next you can be convinced the worst possible thing is true. What’s helped me with mental compulsions is recognizing that like everything with OCD - there’s no black and white. We’ll never fully know what’s an intrusive thought or a thought we create cause they all feel the same. I also notice that I tend to talk to myself in my head when I’m compulsing, so if the thought is longer than a second, it’s probably me talking to myself again haha. I try to catch myself as often as I can, because I think it’s a form of me taking control of my mind so that there’s less space for intrusive thoughts to pop up. We might not be able to control what pops into our heads (which this fact alone is at the heart of my OCD fears haha). But we can control what we say back. So if you notice your OCD being very chatty with extended conversation - it might actually be you compulsing. Also, I think I saw you in the OCD Conquerers support group. How’s your dog doing? Sending positive vibes! We got this!

Sort of in the same rut, I have been giving a response to everything in my mind even though I’m not supposed to and it’s so automatic and I don’t even notice myself doing it . Breathing exercises can help you sit with everything when you’re feeling stuck , it helps me atleast