Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Support Group
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric disorder, more specifically, an anxiety disorder. OCD is manifested in a variety of forms, but is most commonly characterized by a subject's obsessive (repetitive, distressing, intrusive) thoughts and related compulsions (tasks or rituals) which attempt to neutralize the obsessions.
I am new to the group and hope to find some support. I have been a hoarder for over 10 years. Recently, I had extreme stress on the job and ended up losing my job. On Christmas morning I thought I was having a heart attack or a stroke. I called 911 and an ambulance came. I went outside to wait because I did not want anyone to see my hoarding problem. However, the fire department went in. When we got to the ER I overheard the nurses talking about the fireman telling them I was a hoarder. I had low potassium levels. I was in the hospital for 3 days and they ran all kinds of tests on my heart. No problems with my heart. They did send a psychiatrist for about 5 minutes to talk to me. He didnt bring up the hoarding problem, but did prescribe Prozac. Now that I am home I am totally motivated to finally clean my house. But, I am overwhelmed each day with anxiety and panic. I have no insurance, so that is a problem finding help.
winesar21
Goodluck with everything, and keep positive! This year will bring good things ;)
ocdPositive
Glad you are motivated to start cleaning the house. I can understand how this is a difficult challenge. I wish you all the best.
deleted_user
I am sorry you faced such a difficult situation. I am glad that you have used to to motivate you to clean your house. Do you see a counselor? I strongly recommend it. OCD is very hard to deal with on our own. A professional who understand OCD can help you tremendously during this time. I wish the best to you! Stay determined. I am on my own fight against OCD. After only a few months of strongly facing my OCD and wise taking steps to handle it, I am not experiencing significantly less anxiety. I am optimistic and hopeful about my life! This can happen to you too. I admire that you reached out on this support group. Keep getting support from others who face situations similar to you. You can do this! :-)
Elizhabeth
Thank you for the kind words. I had to go back to the ER this morning. Low potassium again. I was feeling the same way as before. This time they prescribed Xanax, so that should get me through the weekend. I want so much to start feeling better, so I can tackle my home. I am going to seek out a counselor next week. I had to quit drinking a few years ago because of cirrhosis and that was a battle, so I am going to remain strong and positive . However, you have no idea how much these comments helped me today. THANK YOU!
deleted_user
Any idea why you keep having low potasium? Could you eat something that would keep you from crashing like that again? Maybe some fruit or something like that? And good luck with cleaning out stuff. Remember, it's just stuff. I used to personify my things and had a hard time throwing things out. But I finally made myself see it as just an object without feelings. The more I tossed out, the easier it got. Here's to better days ahead!!
deleted_user
I saw where you mentioned no insurance. See if your area has a local mental health center. Some base fees on ability to pay do its cheaper. Good luck to you.
Elizhabeth
Yes, I am super concerned about the low potassium. I am eating foods rich in potassium and drinking Gatorade. I took 1/2 Xanax this morning and feel like I am crashing again. I had a good breakfast. The ONLY thing is I had coffee and caffeine leaks potassium out of your body. That is the thing that worries me now. ONCE I get control of this I can get control on the HOME! Thanks for the question about the potassium thing.
mybeach
Just take one step at a time and try not to overwhelm yourself. And remember you don't have to do it all in one day. Definately check into your local MH clinic as they also may have a sliding fee scale and programs to help you with your meds. Maybe even some support program to help you clean up as well..
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