Struggling with OCD

[Juliecloud]

I was recently diagnosed with OCD after a bout of PND. It was the PND counsellor who diagnosed me, although she did say she isn't allowed to give an official diagnosis. When she mentioned it and I read up on it, it was like suddenly everything made sense. Ive had the symptoms as long as I can remember. I've not been to the GP about it as I felt it wasn't that bad recently.

Anyway, things are getting on top of me this Christmas and I don't know what to do. I can't stop the intrusive thoughts. I am in a panic that something bad has happened or will happen. I am on edge constantly and can hardly sleep.

Does anyone have any advice on how to control this?

[Toffeewhirl]

Hi, I'm sorry you're suffering. I had PND and it caused awful anxiety. I don't have OCD, but my son does and I've seen how difficult it is. He saw a counsellor trained in CBT which included Exposure Response Prevention and it made a huge difference. He uses the techniques he learned every day. I know the OCD gets worse when he's stressed: in your case, it sounds as if stress is causing a flare up of your symptoms.

It really would be worth going to your GP to get professional help.

I found OCD Action and OCD-UK helpful when I was trying to get help for DS.

I hope you find the right support. OCD is exhausting.