Feeling Boxed In

[TheGreatAvoider]

My entire house is contaminated. I'm limited in what I can do. I have difficulties with house cleaning and yard work. I have nowhere to put clean clothes, except in drier. I can't keep food in the house nor cook. My dog is contaminated and spreads it. I only pet her at night and never take her on walks. I'm feeling boxed in.

[Hidden]

I am sorry that you are going through a difficult time.

OCD is really affecting your daily living.

Sit with the anxiety and the feared consequences, when you resist the urges to do compulsions.

The anxiety will be high in the beginning, but it will get lesser with time.

When the thought keeps popping up, categorize it as an OCD thought.

Put the thought away in a box.

I hope you are able to get better.

Try to see if you could see a Psychiatrist to get started on some medication for OCD.

Medication will help you become stable for daily living.

[Engelbrekt]

So sorry to hear about your situation. You have to seek help. OCD just grows if untreated. You don´t have to live like this. Contact IOCDF and ask for a provider in your area.

[blueturtle28]

The previous 2 comments are wonderful advice! Yes, OCD just grows if we (you) don't stop the compulsions. Please see a therapist. IOCDF list or Peace of Mind can help you with this. Reach out to these services!

[TheGreatAvoider]

Thank you for the support; aIthough, I have been seeing psychiatrists since 2003. I have been taking Luvox and an anti-anxiety med since that time. I have been taking the anti-anxiety med Ativan for years now. I started taking an anti-psychotic for intrusive thoughts around 2 years ago. It has helped a lot with intrusive thoughts and images. But, I still suffer greatly from phobia and contamination. I have been to therapists. I have even gone to UCLA Mental Health. I recently quit ERP therapy because it became too difficult. I have the type of contamination that can't be cleaned easily because in my mind cleaning spreads it. It's like wet paint that never dries.

[bpj6001]

Have you participated in an intensive outpatient program? My daughter has severe contamination OCD as well. The IOP at Rogers helped her immensely. She is still working with a therapist on remaining issues and taking a fairly high dose of Luvox, but the IOP gave her a much better quality of life. I hope you find some relief soon.

[TheGreatAvoider]

No. Thank you.