Is self recovery possible at all?

I don't have an official OCD diagnosis, although I am near enough certain I have it after a long year of distressing intrusive thoughts and compulsions that have strongly affected my life. Unfortunately though, I do not have the opportunity or the finances to get checked or go to therapy for a good few months at least. Due to this, I have taken it upon myself to teach myself techniques to tackle it and to reduce and not engage in compulsions, as I did not want to take the risk of getting even worse before being able to get help (and desperation lol). For the first time in the past year I feel like I'm finally making some progress in getting better since incorporating these techniques into my life as my symptoms have become more manageable (minus the obvious bad days) at the time being. Is self-recovery actually possible? Has anyone managed to recover without a therapist's help?

Stay.Fluid

User type: OCD Conqueror

Date posted: 20d

I was in the same boat and once I finally was able to get in with a therapist I only had monthly check ins (now 30 min check ins every 2 months) because I came to therapy with my OCD already to a manageable point from self help. I remember feeling like I couldn’t do it on my own. But it is very much possible. Good luck!

lf5

Date posted: 19d

Thank you!! Was unsure if it was risky to start on my own but I'm glad i am

Estrid

Date posted: 20d

It id posdible! If you are determined and work consistently - actually it's better than being treated by a bad therapist. When I was young there was no therapists available - I had severe contamination OCD, I had no OCD books, no internet...but I found out to do my own treatment. It took me 6 months where I reduced all compulsions to zero. It was amazing! Unfortunarely some years later my OCD showed up again. But...I just want to say therapy isn't necessary for everyone! Sounds like you have good insight and knowledge. Go for it! I wish you the best💪!

lf5

Date posted: 19d

Thank you!! Definitely determined to get better especially since this is my only option atm so thank you for the encouragement!!

User type: Therapist

Date posted: 20d

You’ve shown a lot of resilience by taking steps to help yourself, especially when resources are limited. While some people do find ways to manage OCD symptoms on their own, professional therapy—especially exposure and response prevention (ERP)—is considered the most effective treatment. When you’re ready and able, connecting with a specialist can be a valuable next step. Help is here at NOCD and we can assist you in finding outside help if needed too. Also here are some helpful resources: https://www.treatmyocd.com/what-is-ocd/common-fears/the-ocd-cycle-visualized-how-the-condition-works https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/health-anxiety/ https://www.treatmyocd.com/what-is-ocd/common-fears/im-afraid-of-confrontation-how-can-i-get-more-confident

lovemybf ❤️🧿

Date posted: 23w

People who have overcome or reduced their OCD?

How long did it take to make this? And is it actually possible?

lovemybf ❤️🧿

Date posted: 23w

Those who recovered?

People who went from a really bad time with OCD to a better time now. Is it really possible? What was your theme? Did you take medication?

PenguinB

Date posted: 5w

Getting through life when therapy is unaffordable

Hi everyone, I'm in a bit of a difficult situation and I wanted to ask for some advice. I recently finished my studies and I am living from my savings while I look for a job. However this process has turned out to be a lot more difficult and tedious than I expected. I suspect I have OCD as I relate to a lot of the experiences described here, in particular those corresponding to pure OCD. I have continuous intrusive thoughts about how what I'm currently doing is not enough, I constantly need to reassured that what I'm doing is right, with some magical thinking and concerns about my relationship sprinkled in. These intrusive thoughts have made it very difficult to make any significant progress in looking for something. Added to this I'm not even sure I have OCD as I don't have the money to afford therapy right now (my mind keeps telling me that it's silly to write this message because there's no way I have OCD). I live in Switzerland so as far as I understand my insurance won't cover sessions with NOCD. In conclusion I'm a bit stuck, therapy would help with finding a job but I need a job to get therapy. If any of you have had any similar experience and have some piece of advice it would be very welcome.

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Is self recovery possible at all?

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