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?
New germfreak : Hi. I just joined this... - My OCD Community
New germfreak
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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.
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!
Thank you but, wdym with self help materials?
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.
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.
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