Just started doing erp and it’s so hard when I’m with my dr and he’s trying to help me stop doing this compulsions and the way he explains how much its ruining my life I get it but erp is so hard and exhusting . Does anyone like do it on there own or only with there dr and how does it work for you thank u so much
I do it on my own between sessions. ERP *is* really hard. I feel exhausted too, so I’m trying to remind myself that if this were easy, I’d have done it already. I’m also resting and recharging when I can so I can outlast my OCD. Improvement’s coming incrementally, and unevenly, but it is happening.
@robertdscully What do u try not to do if u don’t mind me asking
@alex0523 My biggest problem is avoidance. I get so scared of being in public, or dealing with my personal finances, or thinking that I need to justify my every action, that I shut down and don’t do things that might possibly spark that fear. Today, I went out to two bookstores and the grocery store and while I did panic a little, I was able to stay present and control it better than I have been.
Something that helped me with the whole concept was this: it is like you are wearing those 3D goggles that portray a situation that feels real when really you are just standing in a room. OCD is like that… ramping up your feelings about something that is not even true/happening… therefore you can sit thru the emotions and not react. We have an anxiety disorder not a thought disorder💝 Hope that helps….
@Hopeful58 I am new to this as well, and that certainly helped me with understanding ERP. Thank you.
@Hopeful58 Thank u so much
@Mr. D What are some of the things you do for erp if you don’t mind me asking
@alex0523 I just started ERP last week. I am a fine artist and illustrator by trade and I have been having a hard time making deadlines and lost two jobs recently due to perfectionism. I’m starting with baby steps, my therapist is having me complete quick drawings and sitting with being uncomfortable with the end result not being “perfect”.
@Mr. D I love that that’s a good idea thank u for sharing ur experience does it create a lot of anxiety for you
I am about to start ERP soon and I am terrified. Best of luck!
@Luna78 You too let’s keep in touch
It's really difficult but you'll be stronger for it. I did it on my own with advice from Tracy on NOCD and the advice of strangers, you'll feel alone and messed up as a person but sometimes you'll feel moments of happiness.
@strongsurvivor What were some of the things you did for erp if u dont mind me asking
@alex0523 As stuff came up organically I would avoid compulsing.
This is something that takes time. Sometimes a really long time. So give yourself grace
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