To everyone who went through/is going through ERP, what has changed? I need motivation to do ERP

I went on an intensive therapy course that included ERP (I'm in the UK). Complete game changer. I especially found learning how the brain works and why it doea what it does really helpful but ERP is the thing that has helped me the most. Good luck and definitely think about doing it

I lived with OCD for 37 years before getting diagnosed and treatment. I didn't get treated because I didn't know I had OCD until a few months ago. When I first started treatment, I had an intense fear of knives and was struggling with harm and suicide OCD. ERP was brutal, but it taught me how to deal with my intrusive thoughts. I also have panic attacks and ERP helps with that too. I have made so much progress. If you do ERP, go all in. It will be scary and uncomfortable, but the benefits are more than worth it. I can now hold a knife no problem and things that used to give me major anxiety no longer do. You will have good days and bad days. The key to a successful exposure is not doing a compulsion during or after. ERP will be one of the hardest things you have ever done. But its worth it.

@cookiesbird I’m in uk & just wondering where you got this help?

OCD treatment centre in Taunton. Unfortunately I had to pay (borrowing from parents) but they were brilliant

Thanks for sharing. I’m going into week 3 with an NOCD therapist but like you @Lms526 I’m 57 but was only self diagnosed 3 years ago after suffering for 40 years. So glad to hear you’re improving

@cookiesbird I take the same antidepressant

I do relate cookiesbird as I to believe menopause has made things worse. I eventually had to come out of work as I just couldn’t do it anymore but ocd makes you doubt if that was right thing to do! Do you mind me ask what your theme is?

It's varied over the years and at the moment it's a horrendous one that I hate to tell

Has it impacted your relationships?

No....I'm very lucky with my husband but he is my 2nd one!!