OCD and Recovery

[2stop]

I am wondering if anyone can share with me their experiences of dealing with OCD especially in a context of recovery from substance abuse...but all experiences would be appreciated. I am finding the OCD thoughts to be a huge trigger in the panic attacks/social phobia issues. I guess they are all related. The OCD thoughts are sooo brutal. I worked through an episode today. My body was cramped up from the thoughts, from the fear of being at the school, around people. But I did it!! It felt so much better after facing it...but still the OCD and panic limits alot of what I do. The teacher at my kids school wants to talk to me about working at the school more than just the weekly cleaning, being there alot more and I am alittle fearfu, but yet so excited..maybe an actual job! Been praying I would find one this year.I am committed to working through it and facing it, but need some encouragement and shared experiences. I am doing more and coping better, and sober and clean....but it is still very painful and I would love to hear success stories about those who have overcome the debilitation of OCD thoughts. I used to have a book that helped some..need to get it again. But first hand accounts would be cool.

Thanks!!!!

[Anna]

Hi Tammie,

I can't offer much in the way of help, although I do suffer from anxiety and the situation you're facing would cause me a lot of upset. I struggle to control my thoughts and my breathing and I know in the past that I've passed over opportunities because I was so nervous.

I'm so glad to hear that you're doing so well. I hope that facing your fears will make each week, each day better for you. I hope that gradually the negative feelings will ease up for you. Good luck with meeting with the teacher.

Love, Anna

[2stop]

(((((((((((Anna)))))))))))))

Thanks for the kind words. I know I can make it. It really helps to read about others progress and victories with it. One step, one day at a time.....this moment really..is all that matters..building slowly all the dreams I had let go of. I am rediscovering them now..and wanting to jump in with both feet running! LOL..patience is still a virtue I am working very hard at!

Huge hugs to you Anna, hope you have been well.

[ali42]

Ok my friend...I can tell you that... yes, the OCD used to be a big factor in my panic attacks. In trying to have everything perfect and worrying about getting everything done just right...I was getting overwhelmed to the point that I would have a full blown attack. The more you realize that it's ok...if something is out of place...it's ok if you don't get it just right...it's ok if there is something left undone that day...the easier it is for you to calm the panic.
Panic is compounded by OCD..for me...having a job was a great help because it gave me something to keep my mind occupied which helped in keeping the panic under control. You will be nervous...that's ok and that's normal...but, I think you will find it to be a good release for you to work more hours so you have a place you can get out and go to where you feel comfortable. It may take a few weeks but...you will see that it will help you cope...the more you interact...the more you see...you can handle the panic and you will get through it and YOU WILL BE OK. I always handled the panic attacks better when I was near someone who was familiar to me.

Hang in there my friend

Ali

[2stop]

Thank you Ali..I knew you understood...and trust me it helps knowing you made it through. I am looking for every success story I can find..it really helps.

Thanks my friend.....(((warm hugs))) good to see you posting!