I’m new to this

[612alex]

I’ve had lots of problems my whole life and recently went through some big life changes. I moved out for college and am in a new environment. It’s a safe and healthy place for me but all the sudden my anxiety and panic attacks get super bad. I have I trust I’ve thoughts of self harm or harming others when I don’t want to do those things and it scares me. I’ll distract myself by doing certain I guess rituals? Idk if that’s the right word I’m still learning. But I went to see a therapist and she said that I have severe OCD. I though I was just having anxiety problems but now I’m learning all these problems are connected though OCD. It’s just a lot at once to learn. I live with roommates and my girlfriend who is very supportive and patient with me while I try to figure this stuff out my family is 4 hours away I’m just overwhelmed and if anyone can maybe share their story or tips please do.

[NattyBumpo]

You are not alone.

[NattyBumpo]

612Alex,you are not alone. I have OCD myself,and I know how scary it is. Seeing a therapist is a good start. This is a very loving,understanding community,and we are here to help each other by sharing our stories,our advice,and listening. Stay strong! We will beat this!

[Mcfly64]

Yes just hang in there and take one day at a time.

[ocdbegone89]

Hi, Alex. Hang in there! You are not alone. I remember reading on a resource that if those thoughts make you uneasy, then you will not want to do them, as you also said. They are just what your OCD pushes on you. My OCD does not involve what you describe, but I am no stranger to intrusive thoughts about various aspects of my life, like about health-related compulsions. It is important to recognize those thoughts as unauthentic. These intrusive thoughts lose a lot of their power once you recognize that they are not part of your authentic self. How are you doing?

[612alex in reply to ocdbegone89]

Thank you its super helpful hearing from others. I’m doing good it was a good week with not a lot of intrusive thoughts and i could keep my compulsions to a minimum. I’m a little anxious because it’s been so good that things are going to turn and be bad so I’m trying to no think of that and focus on the good but its a struggle to not think about that

[ocdbegone89 in reply to 612alex]

Glad that it is going well. Sometimes the best thing you can do is ride the good wave, while a part of your mind keeps the anxiety at bay, and you take the problems as they come. Hope it stays good for you!