Annoyed

[Lauragbr]

I have been doing fairly well come out of this last relapse but today has been tough. Intrusive thoughts trying to get to me . I know it doesn’t help to wonder why today is a rough day but sometimes I just feel when I’m getting so much better OCD says” not so fast, I’m still here!”

[deValentin]

Recovery is indeed a bumpy road. When one has been dependent for a long time, for instance, on "perfectionistic ways" to appease one's mind, one doesn't easily regain a normal freedom of choice.

Personally, I find a two-pronged strategy useful. When I find it difficult to carry out an OCD-free activity, I remind myself that's a reasonable price to pay to have peace of mind. When I find it tempting to carry out an OCD-like activity, I remind myself that's okay to seek peace of mind, but not at any cost.

[80_Zil_ian]

I know how it feels. In my case, external stimuli, like stressful moments, can lead to really bad days or longer periods of difficulty, even when I'm experiencing a long improvement.

I tend to accept, and sometimes even embrace, these challenges. I consider myself a very lucky person because of everything I have in life: a great family, a home full of love, a good job, and good health insurance—things that are a privilege in my country, where a considerable part of the population struggles with challenges much harder than OCD.

So when a relapse occurs, I use it as a reminder of how small I am and that I should not forget that things can always turn around in a matter of minutes; good things can be ephemeral.

I try to see my OCD as something that keeps me more alert to how fragile these things are.

[Lauragbr in reply to 80_Zil_ian]

Thank you!!

[RUtalkingtome]

OCD is an asshole living rent free in our heads, an unwanted visitor who shows up un-fucking invited. We need to learn to how Kung fu this prick and get on with our day.

[Lauragbr in reply to RUtalkingtome]

Well said!

[Alibarb]

I'm so sorry to hear that. It's really so hard when u feel your doing better and it comes back to haunt u again!!! Please hang in there. U got this!

[Lauragbr in reply to Alibarb]

Thanks! Doing better today!

[Eli_E]

Hi! I'm with you. I've been steadily improving, but recently I've definitely hit a rough patch and some days it really does just knock me on my ass. So I don't really have any advice, but just wanted to say your not alone, I'm with you, and we will get through this!

[Lauragbr in reply to Eli_E]

Thank you so much for your reply!