OCD Conqueror

Not sure if I agree with the term “Conqueror,” but I do feel better. If you are thinking of starting the journey of therapy and/or medication - here is my testimony. I realized I had been struggling with OCD since I was young. As an adult who now has a degree in Psychology and a license as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), as I got older I began to understand what had been going on. I have watched my own parent struggle with the same thing AND Tourette’s my entire life. I tried for years to manage without assistance - just like my parent. If they could do it, why can’t I? Or so I thought. I let myself think that for probably 3-4 years as I noticed myself and my OCD consistently getting worse. It was “okay” for me if I was only affecting me…. Then I met the man I am going to marry. We discussed my suspicion of my undiagnosed OCD and he has been nothing but supportive. I can’t say enough good things about this man. And as my OCD got worse, I watched his concern for me grow. I was then struggling with my own brain and the thought of me negatively affecting him and our relationship. We took a vacation and I had some really tough times and he spent a lot of the vacation trying to accommodate me and make me feel comfortable. After that trip, I made the decision to address it. I went to the doctor - and he went with me. He assured me he would continue to be supportive and do the same things he had been even if I wasn’t ready to talk to a professional because I had already said I was scared. I did it. I took the first step. I got a referral. I met with another professional. I started the medication (also scary), and then I downloaded NOCD (also scary). While I have an incredible support system at home, this community has also been very helpful in my journey. I’ve made posts; I’ve commented on posts. I started sessions (also scary). I’ve done the work for myself and the people I love. And things have gotten so much more enjoyable. It’s still there, and I still have my moments, but I am able to better respond and communicate. I don’t think I’ve conquered it, but I’m definitely giving it a run for its money. You can be scared and still do the things while scared - the outcome might pleasantly surprise you.