Same thought, different narrative

[Lauragbr]

I have an OCD thought I deal with pretty effectively the majority of the time. Last night I had the thought and OCD said to me “ this time it’s different “ which sent me into a bit of a spiral. Of course, the thought was the same as always but because I have been dealing with it effectively it seemed that OCD had to find a way to hook me. OCD is so sneaky. You have to be prepared for it.

[LuvSun]

Yes it is very sneaky!

[Fusebox]

Thank you! I am 1 year younger, with OCD my whole life. Even as a young child. Was using this Magical Thinking I spin into with regards to my anxiety. The persistent belief was that this all goes away when I am a senior citizen!! Just am so grateful that I now have some wisdom and experience. I learned all I could on the subject, and am still learning. I agree that, with many forms of mental illness, it tries to be sneaky!❤

[Lauragbr in reply to Fusebox]

Have you had therapy with an OCD therapist?

[deValentin]

OCD may be compared to a virus. We can keep a virus at bay for a long time, and then, one day, it can find an entry point, which is the start of an invasion. Did the virus become smarter and found a new entry point, or did our defense system weaken and we became more vulnerable?

Sometimes, with the passing of time or during a period of stress, our determination to do what's necessary to be OCD-free may wear out somewhat, and arguments, techniques, memories of past successes, etc. used to keep OCD at bay and that worked before don't work as well anymore. Then it's time for a fresh start.

Sometimes I start my day with good spirits, willing to think and act wisely. Then, all of the sudden, I see and hear something that irritates me greatly, and all my good intentions go out the window. I don't feel like thinking objectively, and weighing the pros and cons before acting anymore. The only thought that occupies my mind is, how can I remove that source of irritation, no matter the costs. I know then it's time to cool off and come to my senses again.

An OCD spike may surprise us the same way. The word 'discomfort' only needs to be substituted for the word 'irritation'. So, you're right, you have to be prepared for it, and know what to do when it happens.

[Lauragbr in reply to deValentin]

Love the analogy of the virus. As always , thank you for your thoughtful response!