Having one of those incredibly intense anxiety days where that voice in my head just wants to give up. I need to work, and have a busy day tomorrow. Just need a little encouragement as I am on the verge of tears. I know it’s just anxiety and thoughts, but man is it hard to manage on these days.
Well done recognizing what’s happening in the moment — not easy to do. Proud of you for noticing and not giving up ❤️ When I was in a really bad spike recently (lots of tears), my therapist reminded me that when things feel really hard, that doesn’t mean I’m not coping or I can’t get through it. It just means it’s really hard and my system’s on overload. She also reminded me of a couple things: First, to be compassionate toward myself (especially when self-criticism or anxiety is loud). A practice I like is (1) acknowledging / naming the thought and feelings, (2) acknowledging that they’re difficult and I’m not alone, (3) reminding myself to be kind to myself. This can sound like “I’m having ____ thought and that makes me feel _____. And this is really hard. And it’s okay that it’s hard. I am not alone. There are many others out there with anxiety who are feeling _____ right now too. Let’s be gentle with myself while I experience this.” Also, be compassionate as you try to tackle your to-do list. My brain FREQUENTLY likes to use my to-do list to beat me up (ex: not being “efficient or effective or productive enough”). I try to celebrate each step I take in getting through my tasks, while also being understanding that I might not get to everything (and that doesn’t affect my self worth or negate what I did get done). My therapists also encouraged me to take on small exposures—whatever is doable, just to push back on my OCD. No matter how small, they’re steps in a helpful direction. Lastly, I recommend taking things one step at a time. I get really overwhelmed when I think about everything I need to do. I find it helpful just to focus on the step directly in front of me. Not sure what of the above is applicable to your situations, but hope something in there helps. You are not alone. I’m cheering you on ❤️
@Hobbit Also just to clarify, none of this is to “get rid of the feelings or thoughts.” It’s all about riding the wave — taking care of yourself while you experience them ❤️
I’m having the same experience rn. Comforting to share in it all. Because feeling lonely in it is what’s making it feel hard.
@mv3269 So true!!! My OCD often likes to convince me I’m isolated and alone.
Hello old friend. I see you, recognize you, and accept you. But for now, I need to work. I’ll get back to you later. This works for me.
@Western Mass I love that as an NER! ❤️
@Western Mass This is a good one! I too am in WMA! Well met.
Thank you all for the support! Everything that has been shared is helpful and we can all get through this together. Self compassion is something I am getting a little better at and it does help to remind yourself this is a hard disorder to live with when it is really active. Wishing all of you a decent day! ❤️
Thank you! I will practice the this today.
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