contamination OCD

[hummingbirdheart]

Hi,

Recently I moved to a new state, away from my family. I've had OCD for a while (but more so intrusive thoughts). Lately, my OCD has seemed to be more centered around cleaning and it's really distressing. I'm staying with family until I get a place, and I just cleaned the toilet in the bathroom I have. This really triggered me. I had to change my clothes and wash my hands many times and I still don't feel clean. I almost never feel like I'm clean and it's horrifying. My new job will also require me to clean toilets. I'm freaking out. I also dropped my toothbrush in the sink before I cleaned it and had to throw the toothbrush away instead of disinfecting it with an antibacterial cleanser. I'd had it for about a few weeks anyway, but it still had some use in it.

I can tell I'm feeling out of control/unsafe because of this recent move/new job/everything being unfamiliar/being away from my close family.

Does anyone have personal experience with contamination OCD, and anything that's helped them?

Thank you!

[mom483]

Hi Hummingbridheart! I do not have OCD, but I do have the intrusive thoughts and in my experience, it stems from anxiety. In your care, I would agree with you that it comes from your recent change in circumstances.

It is all strange and new, so take some time to get familiar with your new surroundings.

As for the contamination, I think that comes from the pandemic. If you haven't already, turn off the news!That is the single biggest trigger for many people. Also, avoid social media. Instead if you can, pick up a book. Immerse yourself in a story, rather than your own mind. I wish you the best!

[hummingbirdheart in reply to mom483]

Thank you very much for your response ❤️

[Beevee]

Hi there.

OCD is a by-product of anxiety, along with intrusive thoughts than frighten the anxiety sufferer.

The best self-help book to overcoming anxiety or any other fear based disorder was published by Dr Claire Weekes and Calked Essential Help for your Nerves. There is also a lot of material published on YouTube. The book explains what is happening to you and why. Through knowledge and understanding, you eventually larn to lose your fear of the symptoms and peace if mind and body follows. For many sufferers, it is the fear or intense dislike of the symptoms that keep them trapped in the anxiety cycle.

Best wishes

Beevee

[hummingbirdheart in reply to Beevee]

Thanks so much for the resources. I'll have to look into that! OCD hasn't been too bad for me until recently, so I've never properly dealt with it.