Cactus8
- Date posted
- 5y
Becky B.Becky B.
- User type
- OCD Conqueror
- Date posted
- 5y
I struggle with this too, especially exploring past incidents and trying to remember my response and if I did something wrong. I have been in ERP for over a year but this is still my most difficult obsession. I think it's because it has to do with the core fear that I'm a bad person. The core fears are hardest to combat because they are so deeply rooted and have affected us for so long. Give yourself love and grace as you tackle this difficult subject but also know that, while it will take time to get past it, giving into the temptation to doubt yourself and ritualized will only worsen the condition. Sending love and light to you.
Cactus8Cactus8
- Date posted
- 5y
I havent tried erp I'm still on a waiting list but thankyou for your message, its it's hard trying to remind myself it is the ocd especially when sometimes I wont get as anxious as I used to
pureolifepureolife
- Date posted
- 5y
You may be doing covert compulsions that you don’t realize. Can you describe what goes through your head when you’re “not reacting”? Also, how long have you been using this approach? Some people expect results too quickly and give up before your brain has time to adapt.
Cactus8Cactus8
- Date posted
- 5y
I kind of just try not to pay attention to it and concentrate on what's going on, but if the thought/response comes from something on tv I'll tend not to look or have to close my ears
pureolifepureolife
- Date posted
- 5y
@Cactus8 @Cactus8 Unfortunately, thoughts like to be acknowledged. So if by “not paying attention” you mean ignoring, that could be the problem. My therapist has me do something called the “thank you, brain,” technique. When your brain sends you a weird thought, let it happen and say “thank you brain” to acknowledge it. Then return to what’s in front of you. Looking away and closing your ears are avoidance compulsions and so they are also likely driving the obsession to continue. Don’t look away or close up! Keep watching even if it makes you uncomfortable. If you get any intrusive thoughts, just say “thank you brain” again and refocus on the show.
Cactus8Cactus8
- Date posted
- 5y
@pureolife I'll give it a go, thankyou for your help x
SunflowerSunflower
- Date posted
- 5y
How many time you have done this?
Cactus8Cactus8
- Date posted
- 5y
Quite a few times but it goes on and off
SunflowerSunflower
- Date posted
- 5y
@Cactus8 You need to still try, the OCD won't get better if you do a few times, try a few weeks and you will see a difference
pureolifepureolife
- Date posted
- 5y
@cami0102 Also agree with this person. It takes weeks of practice to see noticeable results. Track your progress week to week to stay motivated!
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