I got my driving licence back (temporarily lost due to ill health), and am over the moon with having it, and my lovely car. However, I've had a medical restrictive code for 'modified transmission' put on it. This means it has to have a modified clutch, my car has no clutch: it's automatic, or I can use paddle shift. I can't stop ringing the DVLA to check my car is conducive to the restrictive code: it is, a myriad of DVLA representatives have told me, my dad phoned and asked the same question, with the same response from them. But I find a new way of phrasing, or asking the question, and feel a massive urge to keep ringing them; if I don't ring, my ocd won't allow me to enjoy my car; something which is my greatest pleasure, after not being able to drive for years through health, with the idea of ever driving again being nebulous at best. This is the 'latest' worry in a cornucopia of pleasure reduction ruminations, for me.
I'd love any responses.
Thanks
StevieB
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That's OCD - it particularly likes to attack pleasurable activities. It's because pleasure is so emotionally charged - and people with OCD don't take pleasure for granted because of the obstacles in the way and the effort involved. It's hard, I know - one sets so much store by enjoying something and OCD tries to take it away. I don't know if you could explain your problem to the DVLA - if someone sympathetic could listen to you - and get them to allow you to ring them, knowing your situation. Then perhaps get used to enjoying your car, and eventually that will get the better of the urge to ring them. That's how it could work - I don't know if it actually would in this case. Pleasure is a good motivator! I have tried similar methods and they aren't always easy but they can help to get you enjoying things again.
Thanks! Pleasure's a good motivator, you say. People who take time to help (like you) are better, says I ! I know it's irrational as the DVLA have told me I'm fine, they spoke to my dad with the same response, my brother who's a hgv driver and knows the DVLA/license entitlements/road rules well has. The problem with explaining to the dvla my ocd issue is it's setting the precedent for further worries; I can't walk away and act normal, I'll HAVE to get the ultimate reassurance; alas, that's what lead me here! And plus, that wouldn't placate the worry, just encourage it to set the bar higher next time! It's just another in a LONG line of compulsions: from counting to four age 9, to anorexia/exercise addiction age 17 (long over that now, it only took a few years, lol).
It helps hearing impartially from someone like yourself it's just an ocd worry though!
That's the problem with OCD - don't do anything that could exacerbate it! But do try to get back to enjoying your car - and make use of the pleasure motive if it helps. I know how hard it is - I too have had OCD for ages. It likes to set the bar higher and higher until it has you grovelling. Keep that bar low!
All good wishes.
Sally
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