So I was officially diagnosed in the last 2 weeks with OCD/Anxiety. I’m so confused and hurt because I never experienced anything like this before to this magnitude. I’m embarrassed because I’m a mental health professional and I’m on the other side of the table...just need support. I can’t believe this is happening to me. Just curious as to what are some types of coping skills work for you ? I know everyone is different but I’m seriously trying to remain calm.

Emmaaaahh

Date posted: 5y

Hey there! I'm a university student with OCD studying to become a therapist! (Kind of backwards to your experience). Being diagnosed with OCD made me question whether or not I should become a therapist (of course, OCD makes you doubt everything). But if you think about it, you have now experienced what some of your patients might be feeling. That experience will make you more equipped to help those who have OCD, and maybe help those distinguish whether it is that or something else. Look at how well the founders of this app are doing, and how much help they are working to provide this community. I know it's really scary to be diagnosed with OCD. I also know for a fact that once you get over this (and you will!), you will be an even more understanding, knowledgeable therapist than ever and you will continue to help so many people. Sometimes we just need to take a step back and take care of ourselves first, and there is nothing wrong with that :) Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), along with an SSRI is the most successful treatment there is for OCD, so if you're looking for somewhere to start, I'd start there! Stay strong, know that you're not alone and that your experience with this disorder will benefit your practice in the future (even though I wouldn't wish it upon anyone)!

Chipmunk90

Date posted: 5y

Thank you so much for your kind words! My mom has said something similar as to there’s something I can do with this experience. By hearing this from you is confirmation. I’ve got a worry quartz crystal, and an amethyst bracelet to help (holistic approaches) and surprisingly they have helped a little. I will try my best to stay the course and weather this annoying storm lol

Emmaaaahh

Date posted: 5y

I'm so glad I could help :) it makes me feel better about going into a profession where I'm helping people with struggles like this. I will have to try those holistic approaches as im struggling with getting medications sorted out at the moment and it has been quite a pain. We got this ?!

Chipmunk90

Date posted: 5y

That’s right we do got this! Oh and of course I’m on day 2 of Sertriline HCL. I could tell a difference within my 1st/2nd day although some people it takes a week to a month. Its just a little intense at times and not so much all the time. But the best of luck to you and your studies and thank you for reminding me not to be so hard on myself.

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