Compulsions

I never had this type of OCD but I do know how time consuming compulsions can be. Just last night o had a hard time sleeping because I had a fear of going to the bathroom on myself in bed. I would go to the bathroom constantly, over wash my hands and arms, up to my elbow on the one I use to wipe, and even change my shirt every time I went to the bathroom. It's hard to break the cycle. From what I read with your dilemma is that you feel like doing your compulsions actually worked.... Sadly, it wasn't the compulsions that helped you. OCD is lying to you so you keep doing these things. You got better because you inner body was fighting off the virus for you. The compulsions did nothing but waste time. It's easier said then done, but you have to fight the compulsions. Nothing bad will happen ☺ if they do, it is not your fault. Here is an example I experienced. I have a hard time typing sometimes and I feel like a terrible person because of the thoughts I have. I know that my thoughts aren't how I actually feel and that I would never do said thoughts. But, I will keep erasing and redoing, because if not I am a bad person if it's not done just right. Here's the thing, whether I typed something perfectly or not, I will still not like or do any of the actions my thoughts bring in my head. I am just wasting my time. It's the same here for you. You can do your compulsions all you want, but it's not doing anything but wasting your time. If you enter a room and not do a compulsions you normally do and someone gets hurt, that person was going to get hurt whether you did your compulsion or not. Same with yourself, if you don't do a compulsion and then get sick well sadly, you were going to get sick even if you did the compulsion.. Compulsions make us live a life of delusions. They don't do us any good. I hope this helps.

hey there! welcome to the forum!! 🎉 first off, just want to say how amazing it is that you’re reaching out and sharing—big step in the right direction! 🌟 it sounds like you’re dealing with some classic OCD compulsions, and boy, can they be exhausting, right? these rituals can feel like they’re giving us control—like they’re keeping the bad stuff at bay—but it’s really just a sneaky way OCD keeps us stuck in its loop. and trust me, you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by it all. so, what can we do about it? well, one of the most effective ways to tackle this is through something called ERP (exposure and response prevention). it’s all about gradually exposing yourself to the fear (like the thought of getting sick) without performing the compulsion (like touching something 4 times). it’s tough at first—no doubt about it—but over time, your brain starts to learn that nothing terrible happens when you don’t do the ritual. pretty cool, huh? and remember, it’s totally okay to start small. maybe pick one room or one specific ritual to work on first. baby steps are still steps forward! 🐾 also, have you thought about chatting with a therapist who’s familiar with OCD? they can be super helpful in guiding you through this process and offering support tailored to you. just know that you’re stronger than any compulsion and more than capable of working through this! it’s a journey, but you’ve got a whole community here cheering you on! keep pushing forward, and remember—you’re not alone in this. 💪✨