So I’m incredibly anxious as I’m going back home today after being with my partner for a week. I think for me going home is always a trigger because that’s where I had my panic attack that began this all. I’m often alone with a lot of free time at home, which can mean my brain goes into rumination & intrusive thought city and I can feel pretty out of control. If anyone has any tips or suggestions for how they manage their ROCD, when they know their about to enter an environment that is highly triggering I’d be massively grateful. I’ve already completed my morning meditation, I spoke to my Doctor yesterday about everything for the first time I’m really proud of myself for being afraid but taking steps to get the help I need. But I am feeling really anxious & fearful, as I’ve been doing pretty okay whilst I’ve been here.

Thank you for the suggestion, I already follow awaken into love. I used to journal when my intrusive & negative thoughts first began, but I think that became a part of my compulsion. Writing everything down to feel better, only to have it not work longer term. I’m trying to learn to not to give into the compulsions of watching YouTube & listening to content for reassurance purposes, it can be really really hard to find the balance between education & reassurance.

I’ve been trying to get therapy for a year and a half now for other unrelated issues. When I spoke with my doctor yesterday they explained that whilst your on the wait list for 1 type of therapy, you can’t self refer for a different service (this is UK applicable only). Private healthcare is pretty expensive not really an Avenue I can afford atm the moment, but the NHS (our national health service) is very very over subscribed and so accessing therapy isn’t always very easy.

Because NOCD whilst a great resource is also pretty pricey, when I spoke with an advisor and I was told £45 a session I knew I couldn’t manage that at the moment. I have just gotten a new job with a significant payrise, so I am gonna look into private options again.

I appreciate the comment, but that is pretty expensive for me per week. but that doesn’t mean I don’t value my mental health above all us. As someone who’s just graduated & was made redundant it’s just not been financially feasible. I’m sure it wasn’t your intention, but it did come across a little judgemental. I am looking into a variety of potentially affordable options now that I’ve secured a grad job, I wish you lots of luck on your journey. 😊

Ahhh that’s a trigger for me too! Like going home from vacations with him, it’s always really hard and I’m like damn if we lived together this wouldn’t happen. When really like I need to handle my own before we take things there haha. Journaling is a big help for me! And asking myself what am I feeling? What do I want to feel? How can I feel that way?…Meditation like you’re already doing! Awaken into love channel on YouTube too

Are you in therapy for ocd? I think those fears will become way easier the more you learn and progress. I think having some goals or things to do can be really helpful to keep your mind occupied. Maybe take up some kind of sport that kepps you motivated?

Oh no completely understand, I think I’m just in a heightened sense of sensitivity because anxiety is kicking my ass 🥺 thank you so much for the advice and kindness I’ll definitely look into all of the advice you’ve given honestly been so helpful. xx