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.
Does hearing about other people's OCD obsessions and compulsions, whether different from or similar to your own, trigger you in any way? Is it possible to "give" someone your own obsessions/compulsions by talking about them? I apologize if this is a strange question or topic. The reason I ask is because I always hesitate to post about or talk about my specific OCD obsessions with fellow OCD sufferers because I don't want to cause anyone to start worrying over the things I do.
I've been wondering this for some time now, and since everyone on this board is so great, I figured I'd pose the question here. Any honest input from you all would be greatly appreciative and helpful. Thank you so much for reading.
I've been wondering this for some time now, and since everyone on this board is so great, I figured I'd pose the question here. Any honest input from you all would be greatly appreciative and helpful. Thank you so much for reading.
while i do think it is possible to be triggered by or have our ocd spike by reading another person's post,i hope that that doesn't cause you to stop yourself from reaching out,or to edit yourself....this board is here for support.
if you really feel like what you are writing about might trigger/spike someone's ocd,you could always put a "trigger warning" next to the title of your post,and then hopefully people would ground themselves before reading,or,if feeling too fragile,avoid the post.
how thoughtful and sensitive to others you are,wildflowers!
please reach out here when you need to.
don't know if i helped or not,or made sense.....do take care wildflowers.
gJerry - That is a good point that it is not another's words or actions that trigger OCD, but our reaction to those events. You are completely right about that. I would just hate to, in any way, contribute to someone's struggle, even though I know it would not be my words themselves that cause the reaction in the other person. I suppose this is probably another of my OCD concerns.
Also, I wanted to add that I really admire your posture of gentle acceptance of the OCD thoughts inside your head, gJerry, and your determination to live your life, even if that means brining the OCD along. Too often, I try to fight my OCD and hold the belief that I cannot live my life until it is gone. Not only does this make the thoughts more intense, but it prevents me from living. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
silverstars - Your reply made perfect sense and definitely helped a lot! That is a wonderful idea about the trigger warning - I hadn't thought of that. Thank you also for encouraging me, and letting me know it is okay, to reach out. I still am hesitant only because of my fears of causing someone else distress, but I do like the idea of the trigger warning, and will definitely use that if I decide to reach out.
Also, thank you so much for saying that I am thoughtful and sensitive. It meant a lot to hear that you think that, as my OCD has me convinced that I am a horrible person. You are an incredibly compassionate and thoughtful person yourself, and I thank you for your kind reply. Take care.
I had to jump on my monster and learn how to fly with it. Every time the monster shows his power I show him my control. I have the reigns in my hands and can fly through various painful places. I know those places are there to make me a better pilot for what is to come.
Again, I'm deeply touched by your kindness. Thank you.
Jerry