I’m so thankful for my therapist. She has helped me so much during these difficult times, and I see progress every day. I’m learning how to accept the OCD, especially my specific themes. Sometimes I have doubts, but Chris has helped me and given me so many tips. I’m so grateful for her help.

@Anonymous Harm OCD

@Yessie This is what mine is too. I feel like I get gradually better, then I spiral again. Not sure if I should try another therapist or not. Did you just do ERP or did you do meds too? I really don’t want to do medication.

@Anonymous ERP only, but I’m pretty new to all this. This started all the way back in July, and I started doing ERP in September. It’s not easy; it’s a slow process, but I see a big difference each day. For example, the sensations I was getting from the thoughts have subsided. I still get a small wave of panic when they pop up, but it only lasts for a minute rather than lasting for hours or a full day like it used to. I’m still learning when it comes to rumination, but again, I see it less and less each day. I haven’t started meds because I’m really scared and had a bad experience with Lexapro. I am thinking about medications, but I want to give myself a month before I go that route since, again, I see progress each day. Be patient with yourself and take it one second at a time. I promise it does get better. That’s something I had to learn, and I'm still learning to be patient, kind to myself, and trust the process. Learn to sit with the uncertainty and doubts. I’m trying to learn that too and accept it, which is really hard, but I’m learning little by little.

@Yessie I really have a hard time with the thoughts. Makes me so incredibly sad that they’re geared toward my beautiful children and sometimes myself. This all started in August when my cycles returned around 13 months postpartum. I struggle with sitting in uncertainty and when I don’t have the answer to something. Prayers for you too!

@Anonymous understand completely. One of my harmful thoughts is geared towards my 12-year-old as well, and towards myself too. I know how difficult that is; I can resonate with you. Sending you lots of love. Give ERP a try. Although it will get very difficult during the first two sessions, it does get better. ♥️

@Yessie I have been doing it a little bit, but I also feel like my therapy sessions are more of a vent session and I don’t make a ton of forward progress. What things has your therapist done with you for ERPs or tips to help you through your thoughts?

@Anonymous Basically, when the thoughts arise, just sit with the uncertainty and discomfort and let them be. Don't fight them; instead, proceed with whatever you are doing at the moment. It is really hard, but over time it gets easier. As for ERP, she exposes me to whatever triggers cause these intrusive thoughts. I don't know if I am allowed to say much here

@Yessie Okay, sometimes my mind just spirals at night when laying in bed then I have trouble sleeping.

@Anonymous Some supplements that have helped me at night are magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, and NAC. Look into these to see if they might work for you. For magnesium glycinate and NAC, I use the Pure Encapsulations brand, which I buy on Amazon. They really help me relax and feel sleepy. I also recommend taking a bath with lavender-scented soap or liquid and lavender-scented lotion afterward. Dr. Teal's is a great brand I use . I hope this helps!