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.
My OCD thoughts are so overwhelming right now. The thoughts and feelings wash over me and are so intense. I've had nights where I have trouble sleeping, worried about what might happen to me if I do, but eventually I do fall asleep.
I haven't had any sleep at all and I'm so tired, but my thoughts all surround sleep and being scared of it. How do I get some sleep? How do I do ERP for something like this?
I'm just shaking, I'm so scared.
I haven't had any sleep at all and I'm so tired, but my thoughts all surround sleep and being scared of it. How do I get some sleep? How do I do ERP for something like this?
I'm just shaking, I'm so scared.
What you are experiencing sounds like a combination of mind chatter and sleep anxiety. Both are common when one has ocd or other anxiety conditions. I agree that seeing a psychiatrist would be beneficial to you...in the meantime there are a few things that you can do:
*Listen to relaxation music an hour before bedtime.
*if you have an iphone, ipad, itouch, android phone or android tablet download a sleep app. it is a self help hypnosis app that will help you fall asleep. listen to this app at bedtime
* drink chamomile tea, preferably a blend that also has valerian root. Drink the tea at least 45 minutes before bedtime. this will help to relax you body and mind and the valerian will help you to fall asleep naturally.
* Take a lavender bubble bath 30 minutes before bedtime. This will further your relaxation.
* Tell yourself that it is ok if you do not sleep. that you will just close your eyes and rest. No one has ever died from insomnia and the body will eventually force you to sleep anyway...normally after 4 days of no sleep. so that is a built in safety net :)
This will pass. but the more you focus on sleep the less you get...it is the nature of insomnia. but if you start the methods listed above you will get back into a normal sleep routine. Please know that this is normal with ocd/anxiety disorders and you are so not alone!
Namaste!
Nick