New germfreak

[nyv33]

Hi. I just joined this community to see if theres other ppl out there having the same issues I do. I've been having a problem with germs and dirty things for about 6 years now. I get a lot of stress and anxiety because of them, but I havent tried any medication or therapy. My first question is what would you guys recommend trying first?

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I would like to welcome you to the OCD Support Network.

We are here for each other.

We offer support, hope, encouragement to each other.

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

I have severe OCD.

I think a combination of medications and therapy at the same time is a good start for treatment.

Medications help you be stable when you are doing therapy.

I hope something works out for you.

Hoping you feel better.

[MothFir]

Contamination OCD is fairly straightforward to treat with therapy (ERP), either with a therapist, or if that is not possible for some reason, on your own with self-help materials. Medication (one of the SSRIs probably) can make the therapy a lot easier. You may or may not need to take it forever, and it may or may not cause side effects. I'd recommend going ahead with both. A lot of OCD meds (SSRIs) take a few weeks to have an effect anyway. If one medication doesn't work or causes side effects, try another, as they can be very different for different people. Good luck!

[nyv33 in reply to MothFir]

Thank you but, wdym with self help materials?

[MothFir in reply to nyv33]

Books or online programs that give you strategies and worksheets for developing your own treatment plan. One book I have is called “Stop Obsessing” by Reid Wilson and Edna Foa. I think you can download similar things, but I haven’t tried any of them. A therapist would help you do something similar and can also offer their own insights and motivation.

[Paula-38 in reply to nyv33]

I also have severe contamination OCD and the best way I have been treated is ERP with SSRI medication together. But I am prone to relapse, and I am waiting to return to Springfield Hospital when they re-open again, also there is a waiting list. I thought this might give you a better idea of what does work in your situation.

[Paula-38]

Oh I see. Have you seen your GP or a Psychiatrist or anything because it sounds as though you just 'might ' need to yet. Did you know that OCD Action run Skype/Phone support groups.

Please visit their website

ocdaction.org.uk

[nyv33 in reply to Paula-38]

I just saw this! Thank you I will definitely check out the website