I understand the science behind ERP but is it just me or does it feel incredibly awkward to do something that is the opposite of what you’re used to? And…escalating the ERP with more intense imagery seems even more out of character. Why would I do something I would not otherwise do? Do I have to go there or can I stop short?

Sexual Orientation OCD

Ant Man

Date posted: 4y

That is helpful. Thank you.

Anonymous

User type: OCD Conqueror

Date posted: 4y

Yes!!! It’s so uncomfortable but my therapist tells me that feeling of discomfort is completely normal and a sign that you’re doing it correctly. She also reminded me that it’s not something we have to do long term. It’s just something we have to do now to recover and get back to normal.

Ant Man

Date posted: 4y

Id be pleased to learn about your progress. If there’s hope for one there is hope for others.

Anonymous

User type: OCD Conqueror

Date posted: 4y

I’m doing a lot better and I know I’m getting closer to feeling like myself again. There are plenty of people who have recovered from this, and we will too! ERP has helped me realize that my thoughts can’t hurt me and I can survive any uncomfortable thoughts/sensations that come my way. Thoughts are just thoughts. Don’t give them any more meaning than they deserve. Just observe them and recognize them as ocd content and go back to living your life. You got this.

hbocd

Date posted: 22w

ERP Therapy

I read about ERP and have seen information about it on here. One of the goals is to say, "maybe I am this or that...ect." That terrified me. The thoughts and images that go in my head are disturbing and upsetting. I don't want to even think about saying, "maybe this or that." It's devasting to have these thoughts and question why you're having these thoughts. Doesn't the "maybe" make it worse? The one thing that helps me is that is to remind myself that these are just thoughts and I know I'm not a monster, even if I feel like one. Is ERP not for everyone? Has anyone else had a problem with the techniques used in this kind of therapy? I had cognitive therapy for years with an OCD specialist and that seemed to help a lot. Writing out the worst case scenarios would make me suicidal. Im having a difficult time not obsessing over the "maybe" after intrusive thoughts now. It doesn't make it better.

LauraLoo

Date posted: 21w

Curious about ERP

I'm just laying here avoiding being an adult and wondering if during ERP the therapists are mean. Like, is it a "tough love" type of situation? That makes me anxious

Hobbit

Date posted: 21w

Not making ERP a compulsion?

Anyone have any tips on not making ERP a compulsion? I find myself sometimes wanting to do exposures in order to make myself feel better (feel my anxiety go down and feel relief). 😅

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