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Eight years ago, I was so depressed I considered committing suicide. My obsessions had completely taken over my life—not only were they daily distractions from work and friends, they were terrible. These obsessions, the fear that I might harm a child, didn’t just consume my free time. They consumed me. Nothing about life was enjoyable anymore. Not my wonderful boyfriend, Peter, who’s now my husband. Not visits with my parents. Not my favorite TV shows, or books, or dinners out.

Not even shoe shopping! On St. Patrick’s Day weekend in 2006, Peter and I went to visit a friend in New York City, and we all went shopping. Peter wanted new shoes, so we headed into a crowded Puma store to browse. I felt a small jolt of panic when I saw a little girl with her father. It was the middle of the week, a school day, so all of the other shoppers were adults, but this one child threw me into a cold sweat. She was sitting on one of the large, square benches where shoppers could try on shoes, minding her own business. To my dismay Peter stopped right in front of her.

I kept my back to her as Peter checked out shoes and asked me what I thought of each pair, but it was as though there was a force behind me. This girl’s mere presence made me feel anxious and I felt compelled to turn around every few seconds to see if she was still there. I felt like I was fighting a magnetic force as I tried desperately to keep my mind on the task at hand, which should have been at the very least simple and at best enjoyable. I finally turned around after a few minutes and saw that the girl was gone. “Thank God,” I thought, exhaling a mental sigh of relief.

This wasn’t normal. It wasn’t right. I knew I couldn’t live life as I was living it, but I didn’t want to ruin the lives around me by taking my own life. Peter would never get over losing the love of his life and never knowing why I committed suicide, and my mom would be devastated. I broke down every time I thought of her—losing me would destroy her, and knowing that kept me going.

Although having a reason to carry on was a good thing, crying every time I thought of my mom was not. Crying at work, at home, in the car, at night, in the morning, in the shower, in front of the bathroom mirror to make sure it was really me and not a stranger—this was not a life worth living.

I got help as soon as I got home from New York City. Being so miserable on a vacation drove home how badly I needed it. You can get help, too. No matter how low you may feel right now, there is hope for a better life. There were several times of my life when I thought I would never feel happy again. I would have settled for neutral. Depression is cruel, but it doesn’t have to win.

Don’t go through this alone. Tell someone how you feel. See a psychiatrist. Talk about the possibility of an antidepressant, and therapy. Exercise. Eat well, to nourish your brain. Hug your friends and family. Journal. Call 1.800.442.HOPE (1.800.442.4673) or 1.800.273.TALK (1.800.273.8255). Do whatever it takes to push past this.

My life is worth living now, and it has been for a long time. That didn’t feel possible eight years ago, it really didn’t. I thought that even if I stopped obsessing I could never forgive myself for what I’d already thought. But I did both. I was able to gain control over my obsessions, and I’ve realized that my bad thoughts were never my fault—OCD tortured me. I was the victim. Now I’m the victor.

Keep your chin up. Write to me if you need someone to talk to, someone who understands.

You are worth it!

90 Comments

  • Linda Weller

    Hi Alison, I’m the mother of a 10 year old boy with OCD. We are doing behavioral therapy and working with a psychiatrist. Problem is he doesn’t think he has a problem so it’s hard.

    Reply
    • Hi, Linda! I’m sorry; that must be so frustrating. I imagine 10 is a hard age for that. By the time I got help I really, really wanted it. I hope he sticks with it and things get easier for your family!

      Reply
      • Linda Weller

        Yes extremely frustrating but staying positive!

        Reply
      • Tina Chau

        Hi how did you get better? I’m suffering really bad right now and it also turned into a depression. Everyday I wake up and wonder when or if this nightmare will ever be over. The only thing that keeps me going are my two toddler boys. I have never felt like this before in my life. I am living on a high state of anxiety and sever depression

        Reply
        • Jane

          Tina, I don’t know when you wrote this, but I hope you are feeling better. I am suffering really bad too and m toddler boy is what is keeping me going, but it is so hard and exhausting. I feel like I can’t endure. It is a living nightmare.

          Reply
          • Jessica Price

            Hi Jane, thank you for sharing, and I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. Please contact us at info@iocdf.org or (617) 973-5801 so we can help you find support.

      • Des

        Hi I am struggling really bad with ocd and depression. Almost to the point of giving up. Let me know if you can chat

        Reply
        • Jessica Price

          Thanks for your message. I am so sorry to hear of your difficulties! It sounds like it has been a very tough path for you, and hopefully we can work together to move forward.
          Please feel free to call our offices so we can work through your options together – we can be reached at (617) 973-5801 between 9:00am – 5:00pm EST, Monday through Friday. If you would like, you can also take a look at our website. There is a lot of good information about OCD and treatment options, as well as our Resource Directory to find help in your area.
          Additionally, I urge you to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline if you ever feel like harming yourself or taking your own life. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255, or online at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ (they have an online chat function if you are in crisis). Having OCD can be a very hard journey, but there are options out there and there is hope!
          Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about any of the above, or anything else. Definitely give us a call if you would like, we will look forward to speaking with you. Thanks again, and have a good rest of your day!

          Reply
    • Alyson

      My name is Alyson, and I have been searching and trying to figure out what is going with my mind. I have obsessive thoughts about stabbing and harming people, especially loved ones. Ugh, as you know these thoughts do not match any of my history, values, or personality, which puts me in a confusing despair. I, too, struggle with these thoughts around children. I have started seeing a psychologist that specializes in anxiety/panic, plus, I have been on lexapro for few years. I feel so deafeated by this and become very sad because I can’t see a future with children or family in it. Any thoughts or insight would be appreciated. You’re story has made me not feel so alone for today. Thank you.

      Reply
      • Hi, Alyson! I’m so sorry you’ve struggled with similar thoughts — I know how awful they can make a person feel. I do think, however, that if you want a family that includes children, you should have that and can have that. OCD shouldn’t rule your life, even though it tries to. People with OCD are the least likely to actually commit an untoward act. And I know it seems weird, but having kids around will help you face your fears. Good luck!

        Reply
      • Marie Mahon

        hi, i had similar thoughts and much worse for about a year. the more i tried to shove them away the worse they got. It was like beating the air or like a swarm of bees coming after me. the more i tried to resiist them the worse they got. dont loose hope. when i thought i was going mad i decided to simply allow the thought in without trying to resist it and then most definately do not entertain it but no matter how you feel let it go, even though maybe you want to think about it, simply decide NO, im letting it go out the back door and it will. I used to say “this thought is not from me” and literally turn my back on it because i did not want to harm anyone and deep down i knew this was an irrational thought. Do it. The fear you feel inside right now is worse than any other fear. You are never going to do what you,re afraid you might do. Dont try to beat it away, let it in but not for tea, let it out the back door, Marie.

        Reply
    • Bethany

      I feel the same way! How did they help you?

      Reply
      • Hi, Bethany, I don’t know if you’re writing to me, but what’s helped me has been medication (specifically Paxil for me, but there are several options), reading books about how to face my obsessions, and generally living a life of ERP (exposure and response prevention, which is the gold standard for OCD treatment). If something scares me, I try to face it, especially when it’s an OCD fear and not, say, my fear of snakes.

        Reply
  • Dee

    I’ve had OCD for about 20yrs. now. It was like a rollercoaster, ups & downs. First antidepressant worked perfect for 2yrs. Then it stopped. Then I tried different ones. Some worked ok. Did therapy which helped a bit. Last yr. I had a seizure. About 5 months after OCD was horrible, my Doctor suggested CBT. I was determined to feel better & normal. It’s working!!! Never knew it would work this well. It was hard at first but I stayed determined not to give up! Now I’m feeling great! Busy! Babysitting, going to see movies, shopping, about to volunteer at an animal shelter!! Thank you for sharing your story!! Glad you’re doing well!!

    Reply
    • Dee, that is great! I’m so glad you’re doing well. Staying busy definitely helps (of course, having time to relax and unwind is good, too!).

      Reply
    • Mary

      I have real event ocd. I obsess over my past . I hurt someone I love, not physically, but none these hurt them. How can I move on? What is the treatment for this? Thank you,

      Reply
      • Jessica Price

        Hi Mary–thank you for sharing that, and I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. Please contact us at info@iocdf.org so our resource specialist can help you.

        Reply
  • Dianne Smith

    Thank you for your blog post, Alison!

    To Linda Weller – who’s son has OCD – my daughter was diagnosed at age 8 and we followed the same approach. Just keep going and do what they suggest, it will get better!!! She is almost 15 now and is doing very well but it was a long tough road to get here.

    Reply
    • Linda Weller

      Thank you Dianne. Can you recommend any online support groups or anything similar. His OCD is very taxing on our household as it’s geared towards his sister and anything she touches or is near so it’s affecting her alot as well.

      Reply
      • Dianne Smith

        Hi Linda, I don’t know of any. I never could find any other parents while I was going through this with my daughter. You can email me dmdsmith3@hotmail.com and I can certainly help, I am sure there are some online groups now that I couldn’t find back then. If you click on Janet (ocdtalk) ‘s name it takes you to her blog where it looks like there are a lot of followers!

        Reply
  • Thank you so much for continuing to share your story, Alison. You are giving others the best gift there is………hope!

    Reply
      • Jill

        I have been struggling with OCD for probably 15yrs or more. I don’t know what to do. I’ve done medications which I gain lots of weight on….they also stop working after a couple of years. I interrogate my husband about everything he does when I’m not around. I find it very difficult to to trust ppl besides my mom and dad. I have rituals, anxiety all the time…..to the point where I realize I’m holding my breath. Sometimes I get so upset that I start to lose feeling in my hands and feet. I also get headaches from time to time. Very recently I have started to have suicidal thoughts. This is ruining my marriage and my life. I don’t know what I can do.

        Reply
        • Hi, Jill. I’m so sorry you’re struggling so much right now. You mentioned you’ve been on medications; have you tried therapy, specifically exposure and response prevention (ERP)? It is the gold standard for OCD treatment. Something else that can help is finding a support system of folks who really understand what OCD is. There are some great support groups on Facebook; you can post your struggles in a private forum and get advice from people who have been there. You can also look into a support group in your community. I would also recommend reading self-help books for OCD, both by professionals and people who have OCD. It can help you feel less alone and give you some practical tips for getting better.

          If you are feeling suicidal, please tell someone. You can always call 1 (800) 273-8255, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Please don’t give up; there is hope for recovery and better days ahead.

          You can write to me, too. Just fill out the form on alisondotson.com; it will appear in my inbox as a private message.

          Reply
  • Pam

    So many blogs and I thought I was original. I have been a therapists for 15 yrs. I discovered I had a chemical imbalance called OCD when I was 31 yrs old. That knowledge changed by life and how I saw myself. Knowledge is power! I commend those who share their stories.

    Reply
    • You’re right! Knowledge is power. For me just knowing what was going on, and being able to name it, helped tremendously. I hope I’m helping others figure it out, too.

      Reply
    • Alma nunez

      Hi! Pam
      I my self suffer from ocd, iam a 26 yr old. Mother of two kids right now iam on zoloft I’ve heard it gets worst before it gets better. But I have hope I will be my self again!! Thanks for sharing xoxo

      Reply
  • kdm1992

    I almost took my life my junior year of high school. I had a plan and I was about to execute it. Fortunately, a teacher found me in distress before I could act. People think that OCD is something to joke at. It’s not. When you see someone in distress, don’t laugh.

    Reply
    • Wow, I’m so glad your teacher intervened. It can be so hard to tell people how low we feel, and you’re right–people joke about OCD to the point that it doesn’t seem like a big deal. It is a huge deal. That’s why I’m writing about it now that I’m doing so well. It’s still hard sometimes, but if I can help people understand what OCD really is it’s worth it! Thanks for sharing part of your story here.

      Reply
  • This truly shows that OCD/depression is beatable! You are really inspiring to have pushed yourself through that and one day I hope to get to where you are right now. I feel, at this point, that my OCD is taking over me, but this really gives me motivation to keep fighting and never give up. Even though I really don’t want to sometimes. Keep going with your journey, you will and have inspired others by doing so. : ) xx

    Reply
    • Thank you! OCD is beatable, even though there are times it doesn’t feel that way. Keep on keepin’ on and have faith in yourself.

      Reply
  • Mary Jeffers

    Hi Allison –

    I am happy to have found your blog. Thank you for sharing your encouraging story.

    My dd is 14 & struggling terribly with OCD. This illness reared its ugly head when she was 7 & has grown to debilitating proportion. She has been self harming – very superficial – thinking about suicide – not attending school – not doing any type of school – seeing her friends less & less. Last night I read her journal (bad snoopy mom) & her last entry was that she wants to die & she has a plan. She is begging to be hospitalized.

    Here is our unbelievable situation. We live in the Seattle WA area. We have Seattle Children’s Hospital which is a teaching hospital with University of Wa medical school. One would think they offer premier healthcare. Well much to our disappointment they offer nothing for OCD. There are very, very limited resources here. She has asked to go to Children’s hospital & her ERP therapist & psychiatrist do NOT want her to go there. Their concern is that they do not treat OCD & that they will push very hard to change her meds. I get it.

    On Oct 21st she was admitted to Rogers Memorial Hospital in WI. She was in their residential OCD program for 3 mos then ins stopped coverage. Her Dr told us she is very slow to habituate. Her tx team plus we (her parents) considered this a premature discharge. As you may know or assume this facility is crazy expensive & very far away from us ( big added expense for us to visit her). We are on their waiting list – 2-3 mos wait at this point.

    I was talking with a nurse with our ins co about her 3 mo stay @ Rogers & that ins stopped cov & that her discharge was premature. She told me our ins does not cover long term residential care. But our school district likely does. WHAT???? This is a healthcare matter & we should get financial coverage from our beleaguerd funding coffers for education let alone healthcare? This makes absolutely no sense!

    She is so depressed & wants to go back to Rogers desperately. Even though I don’t know how we’ll afford it.

    I am baffled by mental healthcare in our country. There are so many desperate people – not only OCD sufferers. I want to stand on a mtn top & broadcast that mental illness is as life threatening as cancer or diabetes, etc.

    One day at a time – all the while I’m on suicide watch.

    Thank you for listening.

    Em

    Reply
    • Oh, I’m so sorry! That must be so frustrating. I know Rogers has a great program, and I didn’t know it only accepted certain types of insurance. If your school district might cover it, does that mean she’d be able to go to Rogers even though it’s out of state, or would it have to be local?

      I hope everything works out for you, and at the very least I hope your daughter’s symptoms improve over time, even as she gets older. I think having OCD as a teenager is a double whammy. It’s hard to deal with everyday issues, and adding a mental disorder to the confusion, hormones, and so on is just piling it on. She’s so lucky to have supportive parents like you, and to have an ERP therapist, too.

      Does Rogers have any ideas on how to make it affordable for you? I’m sure you’ve probably exhausted every option so far. Tell your daughter she can email me through my blog if she wants to talk to someone who’s been through it. (alisondotson.com).

      Reply
  • OCD HAS STOLEN MY MOTHER FROM ME !!!!!! She is on many medications, she sees a therapist weekly and sees a psychiaitrist. Its been 3 years at its worst. She is not getting any better. I NEED TO FIND OTHER RESOURCES TO SAVE HER FROM THIS HORRIBLE SICKNESS.. I WANT MY MOM BACK…

    Reply
    • I’m so sorry, Sonia. Have you looked into any support groups for family members? You might want to email info@iocdf.org and see what suggestions they have.

      Reply
  • Alison, I’d love to talk to you about living with OCD. I’m in the middle of one of my hardest crisis and with no one to talk to. I’ve also got a copy of your book and will start to read it today; Thank you <3

    Reply
    • You’re welcome! Go ahead and email me through my website: alisondotson.com.

      Reply
  • Hi Alison,

    Great blog here. I’m from Nepal and I’ve had OCD since I was a kid. I have always suffered but have gotten much better after having received therapy sessions.

    My problem is, I recently found a loving girl who has OCD too. We never get into fights and get along well, and she accepts me completely for the way I am. The problem is, I keep having obsessions about my kid having severe OCD in the future since we both have OCD. This obsession of mine has put significant strain on my relationship and I feel so frustrated because she understands me so much.

    Therefore, I would like to ask you if you know of any OCD couples (both having OCD) and whether or not my fear is worth worrying constantly about. I would really appreciate any level of help.

    Regards,
    PG

    Reply
    • Hi, there!

      Thanks for writing. I think it’s great that you’ve found someone who really understands what you’re going through–it can be hard to explain OCD to someone who doesn’t have it. And I understand your concern about OCD being passed on to your children someday. There is some research that shows genetics may play a role in OCD, but there’s no definitive answer. Just because you have OCD doesn’t mean your child will.

      This is what I think: If any of your children do end up having OCD, they’ll be so lucky to have you and your partner as parents. Who better to raise a child with OCD than two people who already understand what it is, how to recognize symptoms and work through them?

      I would treat this worry as any other fear or obsession. It’s holding you back, and that’s not fair. If you need any further support or information, feel free to email the experts at the International OCD Foundation: info@iocdf.org.

      Take care!

      Alison

      Reply
  • deep

    hi alison……..i inspired by your story…i also have OCD in 22…..it affect me again after 2 years.but now after reading ur story i have got a HOPE

    thank you……

    Reply
    • Oh, I am so glad you feel hope! It’s so important to remain optimistic, even when OCD symptoms come and go. Take care!

      Reply
  • Angela Blanchette

    I have just your bio Alison and was moved. My 12 year old daughter is struggling with OCD and I am just wanting to reach out to someone. She has saw a psychiatrist and is on medication. Our daughter watched a movie that too has caused her all kinds of anxiety and OCD thoughts. She has thoughts of killing herself even though she knows she doesn’t want to do that. It causes her so much stress. She cries how she hates OCD. I just want to talk to anyone who understands.

    Reply
      • Dianne Smith

        Hi Angela, my daughter was diagnosed when she was 8 and is almost 15 now, you can email me if you want to talk: dmdsmith3@hotmail.com – I can assure you, I totally understand!

        Reply
    • Dianne Smith

      Hi Angela, my daughter was diagnosed when she was 8 and is almost 15 now, you can email me if you want to talk: dmdsmith3@hotmail.com – I can assure you, I totally understand!
      (posting again since I replied to Carly below and I wanted to make sure you got the notification)

      Reply
    • Hi, Angela, I’m sorry I missed this post! Please let me know if you’d still like to chat sometime. You can email me through my website by filling out the Contact Me form: alisondotson.com.

      Reply
  • Allan Coffey

    Hi Alison and all others who struggle with OCD,
    I have been married for 7 years with a step son sometimes bonus son who has causes so much stress that it is tearing my family apart. I believe my wife has it also. There are huge battles between all family members. My 4 yr old, stepson 14, step daughter 15 and my wife and I are desperate to find peace again. My wife will say, “Hasn’t he been so good lately”, and then it hits. Today I got a call from my parents who live below us to tell me what was going on with my stepson. Jumping up and down so hard, putting his foot through the wall and throwing his sisters phone, were just a few of the outbursts. My wife can’t handle him anymore and she has asked me to reach out to find some answers. We have been praying for him and our pastor began taking him out to dinner to talk. I need to know what tools I can use to help me, my wife and step son during these times.
    Only the Best,
    ARC

    Reply
  • dan

    hi- glad you got better. Funny how I found this blog as I am sitting in the psychiatrists office due to the depression from my ocd. i had treatment for 7 weeks for my ocd everyday and now without rituals i am lost. every waking moment is torture, every waking moment is crying. im a 35 year old man who never experienced any depression until after erp/cbt treatment. atleast i recognize that my state of mind is that i dont want to live and im doing everything to change that. you inspire!

    Reply
    • Thank you for writing. I’m so glad that you’ve recognized your thoughts for what they are and you’re seeking help. That’s so important! Keep up the hope that your life can turn around and get better. And you’re right–the timing is funny! I hope the timing is GOOD. 🙂 Take care and good luck.

      Reply
  • ram

    Sounds just like me (in a sense) or what i was a few months ago. I have pure O and tourette’s syndrome, and yes suffer from bouts of depression. Great post though, gave me some hope. Thanks

    Reply
  • India

    Thank you, Alison. I have been struggling lately going through Exposure Therapy. It sounds like we have some of the same obsessions. I feel so hopeless at times. It helps to read your article. Thank you. 🙂

    Reply
  • A concerned sister

    I can’t explain to you how much this means to me. My 21 year old brother just got diagnosed with OCD. His confession of a few of his thoughts (which scared him) have gotten him out of his college because the security suggests he is a “risk”. He was doing so well for 2 years but now this has eaten him up. I don’t know what to do or how to help him and support him. He thinks he’s causing too many people trouble and that he needs to apologize all the time when he doesn’t! Please contact me. I really need help through this with him. I have my Masters to start this semester and I can’t be home all the time to help him. But I need to know how. I’m getting him involved for a voluntary job or a paid one somewhere here, but please help!

    Reply
    • Hi Fatima- Please contact us at the IOCDF office so we can help you find resources for you and your brother. You can reach us at info@iocdf.org or 617-973-5801.

      Reply
  • Victim of OCD

    How did you overcome the guilt and shame that comes with OCD thoughts to talk to a therapist or psychiatrist? I find it excruciating to talk about what plagues my brain. I don’t want to say these disturbing things outloud because I don’t want them to be a part of me.. I feel very suicidal these days because the thoughts have gotten so bad. I feel so sick

    Reply
    • Hi, there. First things first: If you are feeling suicidal, please get help. You can call a hotline anytime: 1-800-273-TALK.

      My first appointment with a psychiatrist was hard! I didn’t have to tell him every detail, though–I had read an article that finally made me feel less alone and feel that I might not be judged, so instead of detailing my obsessions I said, “Let’s just say I really identified with an article called ‘Thinking Bad Thoughts.'” He understood immediately that I was having taboo obsessions, and he took the lead and asked me if I had had religious, sexual, or violent obsessions, so I could give yes or no answers. In the beginning it is so hard–I remember sitting there thinking “What if I can’t bring myself to say what I’m obsessing about now that I’m here?” So don’t feel like you have to spill your guts the first time–just get enough out so your doctor knows how to help you.

      The funny thing about obsessions is that they start to lose their power when we allow them in and when we don’t fight them. It’s taken several years, but I’m finally to a point where I can talk about my very worst obsessions without feeling guilty. You know why? I now understand that it was never my fault for having them and that they were no reflection on who I am! OCD is separate from us. We are people with a disorder that makes us feel terrible–we are not the disorder! OCD doesn’t define you, and you can blame it for everything. You don’t have to take on this burden alone; there are people who can help you face your fears and feel better.

      This is something I tell everyone (including myself when I’m feeling low): Everyone has bad thoughts. Everyone! But not everyone has OCD, so other people will have a disturbing image pass through their mind and they think nothing of it. So the fact that you have disturbing thoughts doesn’t make you unique–it’s the fact that you overreact to those thoughts and dwell on them, and try to push them away, which makes them stronger. I highly recommend the book The Imp of the Mind by Lee Baer. Reading it made me realize I was definitely not the only person who’d had terrifying obsessions AND that there was help and hope.

      If you need further guidance, email IOCDF at info@iocdf.org or call 617-973-5801.

      Reply
      • Megan

        Hey my names megan and I’m 23 years old up till now I’ve never ever experienced anything of this magnitude with anxiety or depression with ocd.i think I’ve always been a worrier and stuff but in the last month it has literally been debilitating it all started with panick attacks that came on from me thinking something was physically wrong with me but nothing was so it’s really hard for me to come to grips with myself having this and feeling so alone cause everybody around me doesn’t have it so they don’t quite understand and I just want my life back I want to be normal feel normal not be so sick from the ocd I’m getting help very soon going to see a therapist and maybe talk about medicine but this literally just popped up like this over a month ago I thought it was due to an health issue but when u say mental the whole thing and situation just scares me so bad I mainly have been stuck on it because of the bad thoughts that’s what keeps mine so bad and makes me so sick cause I just can’t get it through my head why I would ever just once think like that I’m not that kind of person at all and I guess it’s just what the sickness does and even tho I want to give up I’m terrified of doing anything to myself as well I just want this nightmare and blurred time in my life to get better and some times I’ll get to feeling btter then bam it will hit me again every thought about the whole thing is so terrifying I just can’t wait till I start getting good days and not tons of bad like I’ve had since it started and it scares me so bad to think of the future of the what ifs just the whole thing like thinking f having to live with this puts me into a state of severe depression it’s all just horrible and all the symptoms of feeling so sick I hate this sooo much it’s literally number one worst thing I’ve ever been through I would have never thought this could have ever happened to me

        Reply
        • Sydney Nolan

          Hi Megan — Jeff Szymanski, PhD, the executive director of the IOCDF, wanted to share the following:

          It is common for some individuals to have a low or moderate level of anxiety and/or OCD symptoms that then spike. Accessing treatment will be your best option. In addition to medication options as you mention, also look into some behavior therapy options for your OCD symptoms. It is always best to address this as soon as possible. Let us know if you need help finding providers. There is hope! Treatment has been shown to be very helpful to a large group of individuals struggling with OCD.

          Reply
    • You need to bring these thoughts and feelings to a therapist, particularly if you are feeling suicidal. We would also strongly recommend you contact someone via a hotline (as Alison mentions below: 1-800-273-TALK) and look into treatment immediately. Please call our office and we can help you find someone who understands OCD — you can reach us at 617-973-5801 or info@iocdf.org. You should also consider joining the yahoo OCD online support group where many other individuals with OCD are sharing the same struggle: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/OCD-Support/info

      Reply
  • Hi, i am so overwhelmed by guilt. I feel like such a bad person and dont deserve to live. I’m thinking if i should take my life or not. I just dont know what to do. :'( i wish i wasn’t so tormented. I’ve been fighting against this but my ocd is somehow still winning. Especially with guilt. I dont know who i am sometimes. I feel like i havent lived my life for such a long time. Like this is a nightmare. I have to judge myself for everything i do. Im always seeing the worst in myself. I dwell on past things and ask myself why did i do that. Its just taking up my days.

    Reply
    • Many people with OCD are consumed with guilt about the thoughts their minds show them. The point of treatment is to help you see the difference between you and your OCD. You need to see an OCD therapist immediately. Please consider contacting a hotline (1-800-273-TALK) to discuss your current suicidal feelings and call us at the IOCDF to help find you an OCD specialist — you can reach us at 617-973-5801 or info@iocdf.org. Many people get better from effective treatment. Also consider joining the yahoo online OCD support group where others can offer you more support and perspective: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/OCD-Support/info

      Reply
      • India

        There is a group specifically for pure obsessional ocd also. It sounds like that is probably what you have. This is the link for that one. https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/pure_o_ocd/info
        Those of us with pure obsessional ocd know how it feels to feel guilty all the time.

        Reply
  • patz

    My son suffers from OCD. He has intrusive thoughts and images. He has started shaking his arms and head as to fight them off. Anyone else experienced anything similar? What helped? He has started self medicating with alcohol.

    Reply
  • Fishmoon

    I dont know what I have, but iIam struggling so much with a fear of hurting children/being a pedophile. I used to really love kids but now, I cant even say that without feeling like I am a gross, awful person.
    This fear plays on repeat on my brain and once it gets going it just keeps going and going, and I keep trying to find ways to convince myself that I am not a pedophile and that I did not hurt anyone in the past and just happened to forget about it.

    I try to remember all I can from when I was a kid to see if ive hurt another child or not. Im so afraid. I keep thinking “what if i did hurt a child, and i just dont remember?” The thought terrifies me. If I were to ever harm a kid id really want to die. But I want to die anyway because these thoughts make me feel so much like theres a possibility i will become a child abuser or that i already have abused a child. and it hurts badly. I just cant take the thoughts. I feel hopeless. How can i ever really be sure i never hurt a child? ive always been really close with my family members. A couple of my cousins i have been close with since we were little kids. I cant stop thinking “oh god, what if i hurt one of them when i was a kid and they are just suffering in silence?”
    I dont know where to go or who to turn to. Im so afraid to talk about this with anyone because i don’t want to be mistaken for a pedophile.

    I want to add that I was abused physically when i was younger. I know its not the same as being sexually abused but i have a strong fear of harming children that i think at least partly comes from that. I would never want to make a child feel as degraded and awful as i felt. Never. But the doubt and this fear eats me alive.

    When i figured out this was a type of OCD i was so so relieved, relieved to have people to relate to, and i felt that there was maybe some sliver of hope for someone like me.

    Im writing this all because if anyone relates to this or feels the same way i hope you can find that comfort i found in knowing i am not alone.
    I am also writing this because i have been holding it in for so long and i am really afraid. I hope this comment in its entirety doesnt annoy anyone, I am just really scared. i hope whoever you are, you understand.
    I also am really desperate and if anyone could help me at all, i would be beyond grateful. I know i probably dont deserve help. But this fear is really taking me over and overwhelming me. It is ruining my childhood memories, and making me take anything from my memories like showering with my cousins when we were little girls, or when i was a little kid flashing my bum in the pool and dancing around in front of my family members, and turning them into possible times i could have hurt my cousins. I think of sleepovers i had with my friends and I wonder “what if i hurt them at some point and just blacked it out?” Its such awful and terrifying thoughts. It doesnt stop, and the mental checking doesnt stop, and the mempry scanning and the anxiety and sadness and everything. Is all so overwhelming.
    I am really sorry for such a long comment but i just needed to get it out. I hold so much in.

    If anyone relates, you are not alone.

    I dont know if i really deserve help, i feel like such a bad person but if anyone could help me, i think i would cry tears of joy. If not im just grateful i can say this all in a place where maybe someone will understand.
    I have a little hope i can get through this. I have hope for you all too.
    We are fighters.
    Thank you,
    Moon

    Reply
    • Carly Bourne

      “I don’t know if I really deserve help. I feel like such a bad person…” This is a common feeling amongst those suffering from individuals with “taboo” thoughts. The isolation, guilt and shame that accompany these symptoms are extremely intense and painful. It took great courage for you to write out these struggles in such a raw and open way. There are many ways to connect with others struggling in a similar manner: support groups (in-person or online) are a great place to start (learn more here:https://iocdf.org/supportgroups/). Any OCD specialist will know that your thoughts, are just that, “just thoughts,” and that you do indeed deserve help. Our Resource Directory can help you find an OCD therapist in your area: http://iocdf.org/find-help/. And don’t hesitate to call our office if you need help finding treatment and resources.

      Reply
    • Hi, Moon, please let me know if you’d like to talk sometime. You can email me by filing out the Contact Me form on my website, alisondotson.com. I’d be happy to chat!

      Reply
  • Susan

    My son has had OCD and treatment for 20 years now. It’s hopeless.

    Reply
    • Khara

      Hi Susan, I’m so sorry that you feel that way. The battle certainly is a challenging one. I’ve been fighting for 24 years now, and some periods are definitely better than others. I’ve had my days (weeks, months, years) where I felt all hope was lost, but somehow, I held on, and things improved. (Which isn’t to say they aren’t bad again sometimes, but when they are, I know to hold on.)

      Somehow, you have to find a way to believe that even though you can’t possibly fathom exactly how, things CAN improve. OCD severity seems to come and go in waves, and when your son is down and feeling hopeless, he’ll need the strength of others around him to believe his situation isn’t hopeless. Hang in there.

      Reply
    • Hi, Susan, I’m so sorry to hear this. If your son wants to talk with anyone, let me know. I’d be happy to chat with him. You can email me by filling out the Contact Me form on my website, alisondotson.com.

      Reply
  • Michelle

    Hi,

    I believe I have been struggling with OCD for quite some time now, but within the past month is when it really got bad where I have become scared, depressed, and so many other things. I feel like I lost control of myself and my life and I know I need to get some help, but my biggest issue is telling my family and fiancé. I am terrified I am going to lose everyone and the thought of that destroys me even more. I have no idea how to even bring this up to them, because I haven’t led on that anything is wrong. If you have any advice on how to tell my loved ones, that would be great.

    Reply
  • Lisamarie Schwartz

    Hi Alison,

    I am suffering from postpartum OCD and have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder since the age of 18. Would it be possible for me to speak to you on a personal level? I could really use some help. Thank you so much for getting back to me.

    Reply
  • Marie Mahon

    my only comment is that OCD is a dictator and it rules with a rod of iron.

    Reply
  • Sarah

    This is almost exactly how I feel right now. My OCD has been really bad since January of this year. I was diagnosed at 9 after my father died. But I’ve never been in treatment for it. We recently moved and became I unemployed and have been sitting at home since. Last night and today have been the worst. Reading this reminded me that I’m not alone. That the exact thing I’m feeling have been felt before and beat it. I’ve never reached out to anyone before, but I feel like I need to now. I need to find a therapist and get on medicine. I want to live life to the fullest. And ocd is making that really hard.

    Reply
    • Alex Bahrawy, IOCDF Community Support Specialist

      Hi Sarah,

      It’s great to hear that you are seeking OCD treatment. You can access a list of local OCD resources (therapists, clinics, and support groups) in your area by using our Resource Directory: https://iocdf.org/find-help/

      Reply
  • Anonymous

    I have purely obsessional (Pure O) OCD and ongoing depression, for a few years now. I think it’s all stemming from all the fandom’s (Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Chaos Walking) im in. I also get obsessed with attractive celebrities really easily. Lately I’ve been super down because I can never meet my favorite characters/celebrities/fictional crushes. None of my friends understand, my family has no idea because I know they would think i am ridiculous and weird and worry. I also feel like I have no good friends and I never will. Someone help me, how do I get past this?

    Reply
    • Alex Bahrawy, IOCDF Community Support Specialist

      Hello,

      Thank you for reaching out. The best way to reduce your OCD symptoms is to receive treatment as soon as possible. You can access a list of local OCD resources (therapists, clinics, and support groups) in your area by using our Resource Directory: https://iocdf.org/find-help/

      Support groups in particular are a great way to connect with others who are experiencing the same sorts of issues that you are. I would also highly recommend checking out our annual OCD Conference. This is a great way to get engaged with the community as well. More information can be found at http://www.ocd2018.org

      Reply
  • Matt Williams

    Alison, thank you so much for sharing. As someone who is suffering from OCD, and going through a really bad episode right now, I can certainly relate to what you are saying. The worst part of it has been that I might never get better, which prompts some pretty dark thoughts. I too could never do that to my wife and family, but I get so frustrated and depressed sometimes. It’s really good to hear from other people who’ve been where I am and can see things clearly from the other side.

    Reply
  • Anonymous

    Hello , I suffer from pure OCD. My life has been devastated. I get very bad , disgusting obsessive thoughts. It all started 3 years back. When it began , I knew something is troubling me but I ignored , most of the obsessions were of dirt and filth. Then I got obsessions about sexual orientation , it was then I realized I have a condition and it was very tough. But that was just the beginning. Now the thoughts are nastier and they have taken away my life. I’m just a 19 year old student and I dont know how I will survive. From last few months I’m suicidal. All the intrusive thoughts are targeted over my mother and my family. I am heavily depressed and get frequent panic attacks. Please help.

    Reply
    • Alex Bahrawy, IOCDF Community Support Specialist

      Hello,

      We would first urge you to contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts. We would also strongly recommend searching for a treatment provider. The very best way to manage your OCD symptoms is to contact a professional and begin the treatment process. You can search for professionals who treat OCD by using our Resource Directory: https://iocdf.org/find-help/

      Reply
  • Jack Francis

    Hey Alison
    My girlfriend has had ocd since she was a child but only figured out she had it around the age of 13. Currently she is 18 and is in the worst state she has been in, she has anxiety and depression and is suicidal. We have gone in to get help and she has been referred to groups, is on setraline and buspirone and will be seeing a phycologist soon but I would like to know what I can also do to help. I spend as much time with her as I am able to try to get her to go out and do as much as possible and support her in still going to the course that she is doing and trying to maintain a normal life. I was wondering if you would have have any ideas as to anything else she could do because things are very bad at the moment even with everything that we are doing and I don’t know what else we can do. I

    Reply
  • Mary

    What about Real Event Ocd? I did something years ago that I am ashamed of. I have been forgiven by the person I hurt but I cannot forgive myself and every waking moment is spent thinking about what I did. I did not physically harm anyone …I embarrassed them on social media….all this as a result of trauma that was inflicted on me by someone else.
    Thank you.

    Reply
  • KT

    I want to find the courage to face my thoughts. I already did with one theme but the theme changed and I’ve felt suicidal for nearly two years now. I’m too scared to expose to the thoughts and most of the time i feel like the only way out is suicide. I do everything I can – exercise, eating well, healthy lifestyle etc. I hope I can find your courage.

    Reply
    • Jessica Price

      Hi KT–thank you for sharing that, and I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. Please contact us at info@iocdf.org if you would like assistance from our resource specialist.

      Additionally, we urge you to call the National Lifeline if you ever feel like harming yourself or ending your own life. The National Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255, or online at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ (they have an online chat function if you are in crisis).

      Reply
  • Gerard de paz

    Hello my name is gerard and I’ve been dealing with ocd for 4 years now. I can’t concentrate or focus at work or school. I have distanced myself from a lot of friends b/c of my ocd. The things that I love like playing video games and anime don’t bring me joy anymore. I feel sad all the time. I think I can’t take it anymore.

    Reply
    • Jessica Price

      Hi Gerard–thank you for sharing that, and I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. Please contact us at info@iocdf.org if you would like assistance from our resource specialist.

      Additionally, we urge you to call the National Lifeline if you ever feel like harming yourself or ending your own life. The National Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255, or online at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

      Reply

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