I need encouragement- I had this intrusive thought on Saturday that if I eat, my 5-month old niece would choke. I have really eaten much since then, and I purged what I did eat. I’m scared. I’m so hungry. Can I have some words of encouragement (not reassurance) so I can eat and keep the food down? Thank you so much!

the above comment is great. all i have is some advice. sometimes when i find my thoughts really difficult to fight against but is something i absolutely have to do (like in this example), i try to work around it somehow. like if the thought is "i can't eat or else" i will use a meal replacement shake or find something that doesn't require chewing so it's not "technically" eating (such as pudding). this is only advice for situations in which you find it extremely difficult to fight against your OCD but absolutely have to take care of yourself. in most situations, i highly recommend trying to accept the thought and accept the risk.

Thank you so much, I think I might be able to eat a yogurt. I really appreciate your kind words and suggestions!

@LR237787 the last thing you want to do is hurt yourself in the process of OCD. when OCD puts your own safety and needs on the line, you will have to either fight against it or find a way around it. with harm OCD, i understand most people care deeply for their loved ones and would put themselves at risk to protect them. but your own well-being is always a priority. other people in your life value your safety and health as much as you value theirs!

@pamela97 Thanks, I love this ❤️