It’s been difficult to make the active choice not to ruminate, because it feels as though I am letting myself off the hook for something I am not allowed to let myself off the hook for, which creates guilt, and then fear that the guilt will never go away unless I confess. But whenever the thought comes up, I keep choosing to let it go again, even if I started ruminating for a few seconds. There are times where it gets easier and I get a break from the thought. It sucks so much, and is very hard work, but I am choosing to do this every day until I am in recovery. I will do this every day even if the thought never goes away because I am never willing to give up trying to get my life back.

My compulsion is confession as well. I started NOCD at the beginning of this year. And ever since I stopped giving into confession (I had to make the active decision that NO MATTER WHAT I CANNOT CONFESS, especially bc I know it’ll just open the flood gates to more and more confessing) it has made thoughts way less anxiety provoking. I’ll get the the thought and since I know I’m not going to confess it anyone eventually the guilt goes away. Sometimes somethings take longer than others to feel less anxious about but it always goes down. Good luck! Very happy to read your optimistic message

i hope i can get to where you’re at one day. stay strong <3

I want to have a mindset like you! I hope more good days to come for you! I love all your advice!! I’m rooting for you💗