I don’t really post that often, but I have been really struggling lately. My struggle is with Health Anxiety (Health OCD). And lately with this coronavirus situation going on right now has thrown me down a rabbit whole and fear. I feel so helpless and vulnerable. So alone. I feel lost. I fear becoming ill but I also fear compulsions, as medical professionals recommend frequent hand washing, sanitization, etc. I don’t know what to do anymore. Waiting listed for ERP.

I just started erp for contamination ocd. Try not to pay attention to coronavirus news as it may send you in a thought spiral. Media (liberal or conservative) always blow everything up. The actual statistics of death are generally based on old age and co-morbid conditions (eg heart problems). CDC guidelines say wash hands for 20 secs. Stick to that as a rule and don’t do more. the most damage the corinavirus can do is mess up the stock market since so many goods are made in China and tourism is down. On the bright side, perhaps a recession is what’s needed to make sure trump won’t win again. Is there another therapist you could consider for erp who can begin sooner? Or a NOCD therapist?

Thank you guys so much. For such along time I felt so alone, not really seeing alot of people with Health Anxiety/OCD and for you guys to take the time to talk with me, just makes things a little more tolerable. I appreciate it so much you have no idea. ?

I have health OCD too, mine is mostly about cancers. But i can relate to what you are saying about going down the rabbit hole, about feeling vulnerable, alone and lost. It may not seem as much, but you are not the only one going through this. Also, someone told me that in cases like this google is not my friend. And it isn’t your friend either right now. Know how to prevent it, how to strengthen your immune system, but maybe skip all the other articles - I think an overload of information won’t don’t you any good right now. Plus, the media tends to focus on the bad and ignore the context or other important aspects.

I appreciate your response, Good for you by the way for starting for ERP! And I have another therapist but she just got back from an overseas trip...? so my struggle with health anxiety is preventing me from even seeing her. Its so ridiculous. And I cant really access a NOCD therapist because I live in Canada. ? But I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me!! Thank you. ?

I have health/contamination OCD and can relate! The advice upthread about following CDC’s advice is great. My NOCD therapist even suggested I post the CDC guidelines by my sink. Good hand hygiene is not a compulsion: excessive (beyond what is needed or recommended by doctors) hand washing/disinfecting is. Right there with you in this current challenge.

Oh gosh I'm in the same boat! I've really found it terrifying. I'm washing my hands and trying not to think about it too much but it's hard. You are definitely not alone!