just wondering, has anyone talked about their obsessions or compulsions to someone they trust, like a family member or a friend? if so, how did you guys start talking about it with them? because my therapist suggested for me to find someone i trust in talking about my obsessions so that i can work with them to help rationalize my thoughts especially when it gets really intense and when i don’t have my therapist to help me in the moment. like i really do need someone else’s opinion or for them to help me come to my senses into the rationality/logical reasoning, but i don’t exactly know how to approach them or how to really start talking about it with them. & like another part of me is holding back from talking about it to my friends or family because i don’t want to feel like a burden to them...

I personally think that the best way to start is simply by telling them that you have OCD. Then invite them to find out a little bit about it on their own. Maybe you can point them to a specific website that outlines the dos and don’ts when talking to someone with OCD. I think when they have a better understanding of what it is, then you can approach them about actually talking about it. My therapist suggested that this would be a group of people, talking each individually, so that no one person becomes overwhelmed.

but if it means for me to get better, then i’m all for going for it and approaching them, i just don’t know how ?

I talk to my friend about my experience with OCD and the thoughts I experience. He has been very understanding so whenever I talk with him it does give me a better sense of peace. I talked to my parents about it in the beginning but at that time I didn’t think it was OCD but that I was going crazy? ? now i don’t mention the specifics I’ll just say I still deal with the intrusive thoughts and I think they get the message. I’m like you where I don’t want to feel like a burden to them, or really just scare them, but definitely talk to them if it means improving on your healing journey. Maybe approach the topic slowly and introduce what exactly OCD is and what it consists of, how you deal with it, how treatment and recovery works, etc. Good luck :)

I’ve found a couple friends / partners care and want to know details but most just say ok you have ocd and don’t ask or care to know more... I think you have to just lay it out there that this is a problem, here’s what your obsessions are, and tell your friends/family how youd love them to help (eg tationalize the irrational) don’t expect mind readers - just be super direct. At the same time, I just started erp 2 weeks ago and my therapist told me to focus on not doing compulsions rather than addressing obsessions right now.... are you working w an ocd specialist?