#WellnessWednesday: Before You Post

[BethIOCDF]

Our OCD Community has experienced a great amount of growth over the past several years. We are so grateful that you use this space to connect, and share with one another! As you consider what things you might want to post in our community, here are a couple of reminders.

1) Does this meet our Community Guidelines?

Please read our pinned community guidelines post, it's important for us to keep this community safe and welcoming for everyone!

healthunlocked.com/my-ocd/p...

2) Is this level of detail necessary?

It is understandable that we are dealing with a disorder that causes great distress. However, there is a difference between sharing that distress and letting OCD win by confessing these graphic details in a post or seeking reassurance. That can be triggering to others in our community, and ultimately will likely not be helpful to you on your recovery journey.

Instead, try “zooming out” and talking about how OCD is impacting you, instead of what specifically your OCD is saying in your brain. This will help you find more common ground with other “My OCD Community” members more easily instead of trying to relate around specific content. For example - “I had a really hard time with intrusive thoughts earlier today and was disappointed in myself for forgetting all I’ve learned through ERP. What do you all find helpful in times like this?” instead of “I had intrusive thoughts about [INSERT SPECIFIC/GRAPHIC CONTENT HERE], what should I do?”

3) Avoid Asking about Medications

OCD medications work differently for everyone. The particular medication or dosage that works for you may NOT work for others. Specific medication details should be discussed with trained medical providers (e.g. psychiatrists), who are the best source of help and advice around any medication-related questions.

4) Is this post promoting suicidal and/or self harm acts?

If the answer is yes, please do not post it. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or wanting to hurt yourself, please access one of the below resources:

If you are in the US, please call the National Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.

If you are outside of the US, please visit blog.opencounseling.com/sui... to find crisis support in your country,

5) Reporting Post

If a post does not follow Health Unlocked’s or our community guidelines, please feel free to report it. An IOCDF staff member will deal with it directly.

Thank you for taking the time to read this in its entirety and let's continue to keep our community safe.