Anybody have OCD?

[anxietyandcats]

It's driving me crazy. I think I'm becoming obsessed with researching OCD now. I can't stop. I have so many obsessions it's so overwhelming. I read more about it and think oh I have that obsession oh that one too that one as well and then get really overwhelmed. I desperately want Exposure Response Prevention therapy but no one who does it takes my insurance and I have no money to pay for it. But I desperately need help. What can I do?

[Worrier35]

Hi anxietyandncats! Yes I have Ocd. And when it was really bad I googled everything under the sun about it. Actually it made me feel more fearful in the long run. I spent many of hours on the couch waisting away my days googling. Literally all day!! Honestly it gave reassurance at first but then afterwards made me worse off. I have intrusive thoughts, and it just got worse.

I would suggest maybe getting some sort of self help books. And try and get out and do things. Do you have a hobby or something you enjoy doing?

[anxietyandcats in reply to Worrier35]

yeah I should try to get out more. Today I just had to call about 50 therapists asking if any of them did ERP and I just couldn't stop thinking about all of my obsessions and how I've had it my whole life. I think I'll go on a walk after dinner. Tried to see if a friend was free but they aren't. I think a walk is a good idea though

I have some self help books. I'll read one now. Maybe the Imp of the Mind. Thanks so much for responding means a lot.

[Hidden]

Claire Weekes believed in exposure therapy. My fear is driving so I am making myself drive a little more everyday and I listen to her on YouTube while I do it. I believe exposure really is necessary to healing.

[anxietyandcats in reply to Hidden]

yeah I'm trying to get a therapist who does exposure therapy. Spent all day calling so many people but I think I finally found someone who does it who takes my insurance thank G-d I'm so relieved! Oh wow I have a fear of driving too! Put off driving until last year now I drive but get bad intrusive thoughts

[Hidden in reply to anxietyandcats]

I had really awful ocd intrusive thoughts for a few months, still get them time to time but I can brush them off easier now. It will get better. Medication definitely helped me.

[anxietyandcats in reply to Hidden]

that's good you can brush them off now Yeah I know it will get better. And I am stable and all, just the intrusive thoughts drive me a little crazy. Medication stopped the panic attacks for sure.

[Tikirob]

I have it and spent 3 years pursuing treatment. Its a horrible system where I live in NYC. If you have any questions about treatment options please ask. I am still trying things out to get better.