travel as an OCD trigger

[Wingsfan]

hey there,

I’ve had OCD for as long as I can remember but was formally diagnosed 20 years ago after my symptoms turned problematic. I am on an SSRI and my OCD is mostly manageable. I did some ERP with a psychologist years ago when I was first diagnosed with some real success then moved to a new city before finishing treatment. Nowadays my OCD flares up during certain times like traveling or in anticipation of a trip. Is there any advice for self directed ERP for intrusive harm thoughts that arise with travel as the trigger? Anything helps. Thanks

[IStillHaveHope]

Hello. Travel was a big OCD issue for me before I got treatment. Like you I would get anxious before a business trip and would obsess over "what-would-happen" when I went on it. What has helped me with these issues is to consider them an opportunity to do some ERP. It is normal to be somewhat apprehensive before travel, but not to be paralyzed by it. I try and allow those apprehensive thoughts to be there; sometimes even welcoming them. When I'm having some OCD thoughts about travel I'll try and say to myself, "I know this is OCD. If I want to get better I will need to try difficult things. I can use this as an opportunity for ERP and the thought can be there. It's okay and this will help me in the long run". I'll then try and do some breathing exercises and allow the thought to just "be".

I also make sure I get plenty of rest and eat healthy before the trip. I know it is a bit more difficult for me to travel, so I take time to take care of myself before hand. Once at the location, I try and be mindful and take it as it comes. At night I make sure I have an hour or two before bed to just unwind, do and do some meditation/breathing exercises. I also bring some melatonin and/or sleep quill in case I have trouble sleeping. Over time I think this has helped to really reduce the stress I have in regards to travel. I've learned that I can deal with this and it won't be as bad as I thought. For me, it's really come down to knowing the issues I face and having a plan to address them.

I hope this helps you