My obsession and intrusive thought is around not being able to sleep. I have so much anxiety about this that it of course prevents me from sleeping because I’m hyper aware, hyper focused and so pressured. I have no idea what to do to prefect this.. a therapist here said erp didn’t apply. I’m desperate and hopeless right now.

Thank you for your reply. The “response” prevention in this case is so difficult for me when things are really bad and desperate.. I will do my best and appreciate your responding

You can do it!

I would recommend working with a therapist that you feel you can work with and that works for you. Also, thanks for sharing your current experience. I would say that you should be very proud of yourself for 1st noticing the anxiety, distress, and discomfort and letting those feelings of anxiety, fear, etc. be there.This is a perfect time to as I like to say "practice" ERP. Practice not analyzing any of those points you mentioned and place your attention on this present moment. Feel your feet on the ground, take a deep breathe, go for a walk, read, go hangout with a close companion, or play a sport. Not avoiding the discomfort, but choosing to do things you want to do and not give any attention to dwelling on that.The most important part being the response prevention. Not easy, but part of the work. When this type of situation occurs and we are in environments in which we are organically exposed to distress, use this as an opportunity to practice doing the work! This allows for two things; showing yourself you can handle and tolerate it, and also letting your body know that although you feel uncomfortable you are willing to keep doing whatever it is you are doing and getting on with your day! This is the foundation!

I have such a hard time letting go of fear/control.. I wish I could turn off that catastrophizing fear and what ifs