how can you deal with intrusive thoughts while waiting to see a therapist?

[Goddessi]

Hi

I just joined to this page hoping for a better support system and a better way to cope with my OCD

[Lazy_dog_lover]

Can you tell me more about triggers and what you have tried that helped and what was no Help?

[Goddessi in reply to Lazy_dog_lover]

I did take Sertraline 50 mg.. It did not work so I stopped few weeks ago. I did try to work out few days a week but that didn't work. I tried to reach out to my friends but they did not have time for me. I feel so alone. I thought my daughters father was my best friend but he is an asshole to me. He knows I am struggling with OCD but he doesn't care anymore. I thought talking to a therapist is the only option I have right now but Im on waiting list..

[Lazy_dog_lover in reply to Goddessi]

I would keep going with the work outs. They release endorphins that help with mood. Your friends may not have skills to give you help with OCD, so it may appear like they are not investing in you, but that is not the part they love.

Do you journal? While you wait for a therapist, it is a perfect time to collect some data.

Data collection:1 ) what happened, how did it manifest, what was the action?

2) what was going on right before it?

3) what were you to do next?

4) what was your mood before,

5) during?

6) after?

Journal entries that are not data:

List 3-5 things that you would say are positives for the day. Some people call them your “wins”. Small or big, it does not matter. These become gratitudes. They don’t have to be big goals. They can be based on what some would call luck. “I was lucky, today when I got a flat tire and Ralph stopped to help” change the dialog to “I am grateful Ralph came along when I needed help.”

After a few months, start adding goals and give enough time to actually accomplish them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

If you react to someone’s comments about OCD or undo something you just did, try not to respond emotionally. Breath in and out deeply to regain composure. Prepare a response for different situations and then use them. No pressure.

Best wishes.

[Goddessi in reply to Lazy_dog_lover]

thank you for your reply

[Weelon]

What is triggering you to have them? Try & focus something positive to occupy your mind.