Anyone else struggling with contamination OCD more than usual since covid? I have contamination OCD that has spiraled out since covid which causes my anxiety and panic disorder to spiral out too. I was checking my temperature 6 times a day, my hands are raw from washing them so much, I have only been able to go to work then I have to rush home to shower, etc. I am just starting out on my exposure therapy journey, so hopefully it will really help. I feel like everything has covid and I can't rest until I have sanitized EVERYTHING! Does anyone else feel this way? What is one thing that has really helped you?

Hello Anonymous, thank you for responding. I'm sorry that you ended up having to quit, but I get it, I worked in a hospital prior to covid and there's no way I could have worked in a hospital during covid. I hope ERP helps you.

Hi Galaxy89, thank you for responding. I was doing the same thing and had to take 5 months off of work because I was having panic attacks daily. Luckily I found a doctor who helped me find the right medication, so that I can go back to work again. I've been at work for a month now, I still constantly feel dirty and like everyone and everything has covid but I'm doing better at handling it. Don't get me wrong I still have sanitizing rituals and still panic but not as bad. It's been a long road for sure and I still have a ways to go but I'm not going back to where I was, now that I can see the light. Hang in there, I know it's hard but keep fighting.

It is difficult. When I went back to work I would make myself sick thinking about it, but every day it got a little easier. I started out at 2hrs for a week and went up from there. Just keep reminding yourself of all the progress you have made and that you are proud of yourself for doing such, that helped me, since I have a bad habit of emotionally beating myself up... definitely my own worst critic. Thank you for responding Anonymous. Hang in there! You can do it.

I'm so sorry to hear that. There really should be more resources than what there is. I had the same issue with my insurance and have to pay for help myself. I hope you can figure something out soon

I'm sorry you are going through this. Don't let ocd win, you are worth much more than that. I know you are going through a really tough time but it will get better. The universe always provides and it's always light after the dark. Keep your head up and don't let this invisible bully win.

@Amanda J I'm such a mess anymore. Fear has taken over and idk how to stop it. Yes there is light at the end of the tunnel but every time I get close to the light the tunnel closes on me.

@Galaxy89 I went through that for 5 months before I actually saw any progress. Don't give up

Wow catattak, I can't even imagine that. I definitely would have been a wreck! I hope your partner is better. I'm sorry about your cancer diagnosis, that must be scary on it's own without all of the added stress about contamination, getting sick, missing appointments, etc. You are so strong for getting through it. I was worried about getting sick and missing appointments with my doctor for my anxiety and panic while we were trying to figure out the right medication and worried I'd miss appointments with my counselor too. I was so worried that I was wearing two masks everyday, luckily I have gotten better about that and only wear one now. I hope you kick cancers butt!

@Amanda J Everyone's struggle is a struggle regardless of the situation. You are doing amazing with a single mask! I can only do that outdoors. I'm so proud of you for that and its inspiring to think I could try that with some bravery too! Medication, therapy, support systems... they all make a difference and we've made it so far! I'm excited for the growth we will both make on this journey :)

@catattak Thank you for the positive words. I know you can do a single mask too. Maybe try it just going outside or running a quick errand and just start small at first. I know you can do it! I'm excited to keep moving forward, one step at a time. Keep pushing forward. You are stronger than you know 💪🏻 If you ever need to talk I'm here