Something I’ve noticed recently is how primitive OCD can be. It’s basically a survival technique that our brains came up with after trauma, at least for me. Like for me it works out every single possible threat I could have. It’s helpful for me to think of it like this.

I feel like after years of living in survival mode from various back to back traumas, I don’t know how to turn off my brain. It’s always in some sort of overstimulated cycle of overthinking, rumination, self checking, and seeking reassurance. I know there will be more peace after treatment. But just hating like I’m stuck in always feeling like I’m waiting for the next shoe to drop when so many shit things have happened to me early in life. How am I suppose to be excited about what’s next?

One of my best coping mechanisms somedays is to remember that while my OCD causes a lot of mental distress, it also can be a strength of mine. OCD has allowed me to thrive in my job, I tend to pay attention to small details and be in very good control of my work. I know exactly what is going on and often think before I say or jump to anger. I tend to apologize when something is truly wrong and be more genuine. I just know we all get in the habit of OCD being this absolutely terrible thing,,; and often it is,, but it also can be a strength in some. It shows I have empathy, am loyal, and a hard worker based on my attention to detail and want for control (even with my thoughts) ♥️♥️

Hello everyone, I wanted to share something that helped me cope with OCD. I have been in therapy for years and different therapists have recommended I name my OCD like it’s a monster. I always had a hard time doing it. I recently tried a different approach and it’s helped me. I realized this week that my OCD isn’t a monster, it’s a younger/teenage version of me who has been through a lot. She is scared and angry and upset at the world, and when she presents herself within me, I talk to her. I don’t yell and scream at her because she’s already yelling and screaming at me (everyone hates you, this is dirty, etc). Instead I talk to her: “You don’t have to scream, you don’t have to cry, it’s alright, you’re right here and now.” Thought this might help someone. We can get through this!