yearsofhinder

Open Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

I have OCD and have probably had it for years. There are many things in my life that I think back to now, and think WOW! Why didn't I see that earlier? For as far back as I can remember I used to spend every night counting until the time on the clock would change, I would have to straighten things, clean things, touch things or do things a certain way, a certain amount of time. I hate it! And I obsess over EVERYTHING! It is crippleling! Before I began taking medication I had alot of trouble sleeping at night. Since I began taking Lamictal I have slept better and have not had to take the sleeping pills my doctor prescribed me. Lamictal helps me stop counting things all the time, and it helps me stop my everyday OCD rituals, or gives me more strength to turn away from it when I begin to give into the temptation of the ritual. I no longer sit and count until the time changes on a clock, or walk down the sidewalk making sure not to step on a crack. I still have intrusive thoughts and obsessions but Lamictal has helped me alot so far.

Open Anger Management

I am 19 years old and suffer from bi-polar disorder, depression, panic attacks and ocd. I have a girlfriend who I have been with for three years. I love her very much but have made many mistakes in our relationship and have turned abusive over the years. I have joined daily strength to try and take control of my life and my anger and to become a better partner to her. I think that this support group could help me alot and I would also like to help others!

Treatments

Music Working / Worked

Music helps me vent! Its very therapeutic! Listening to music, AND writing songs and composing music! I love playing my guitar and viola too! It relieves stress!

Poetry Working / Worked

Writing helps me calm down and it also helps me express myself better than words coming straight from my mouth can!

Open Self-Injury

I am 19 years old, have been cutting since middle school. It mostly started because of being picked on throughout my school years by the "popular" people, and from bottling things in for so long, (before I came out) Home life played a big part in it as well! (stepdad) I have also been in many dysfunctional relationships which contributed. I would cut myself to cry! I have gone months AND years without cutting before, and for the most part don't do it anymore, but still slip occasionally.

Treatments

Outpatient Treatment Program Not Working

I have a therapist but honestly I don't know how she got her degree she is a total twit! She doesn't give any advice, and actually about the only time she DOES say anything is when she says hello and times up. I don't go to her as often as I should because of this! Its just a waste of my time!

Rubber Bands Somewhat Helpful

Sometimes I wear a rubber band around my wrist and snap it against my skin when I feel like cutting. It helps somewhat and keeps me from cutting, but it can also be just as harmful if you get carried away.

Talking Somewhat Helpful

I like to vent when I feel the need to cut! Getting on here helps a lot, and expressing myself though writing songs and poetry helps a lot too. I think that I express myself best through writing.

Tattoos Somewhat Helpful

I didn't get my tattoo for this reason but can see how it could possibly be an alternative to cutting. If I can cut myself from head to toe I can definitely sit for a few hours and get poked with some needles. Its more annoying than anything, like a bee sting. I can see where the stinging feeling could be a good substitute for cutting though. It feels similar.

Open Homelessness

I am 19 years old and was living with my father! We got into an argument and he punched me in the ear so I left! I am temporarily staying with my great grandmother who only receives social security as her source of income. Because of this I am considered unaccompanied youth! Goodwill and another program are helping me try to find a job and I receive food stamps and Medicaid!