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Tag: tips

  • Postpartum OCD: 3 common themes

    Postpartum OCD: 3 common themes

    Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which people have unwanted and repeated thoughts, feelings, images, or sensations (obsessions) that make them feel driven to do something (compulsions).

    Postpartum OCD is a type of anxiety disorder that can develop after the birth of a baby. It is marked by obsessive and intrusive thoughts about the health and safety of the baby, as well as excessive worrying about the mother’s own health and well-being. Postpartum OCD can interfere with the bond between mother and child, and can make it difficult to care for the baby. Treatment for postpartum OCD usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.

    How does it feel to suffer from Postpartum OCD?

    It took me a long time to accept that I have postpartum OCD. I didn’t want to believe that something was wrong with me, but I couldn’t deny that my thoughts and behaviors were increasingly becoming obsessional and intrusive.

    I was constantly worried about my daughter’s safety and health, to the point where I was checking her breathing and heartbeat constantly. I was also afraid of harming her in some way, even though I would never dream of actually doing anything to hurt her. I was exhausted from lack of sleep and my anxiety was through the roof. I finally reached out for help and was diagnosed with postpartum OCD. I started medication and therapy and slowly but surely I started to feel better. It’s been a long road but I am grateful to be on the other side of it.

    Paula F

    After the baby is born, the new mother is going through a lot of changes. She is sleep deprived, hormonal, and may be experiencing some postpartum depression. On top of all of that, she now has a tiny human being that is completely dependent on her. It is a lot of responsibility and can be very overwhelming. For some women, this can trigger OCD symptoms.

    This can obviously put a lot of stress on the relationship between the parent and the child. It can also affect other relationships within the family, as the OCD can become all-consuming.

    When our son Ryan was born, my wife developed postpartum OCD. She was constantly worried about him becoming sick or being hurt. She would check on him dozens of times a night, to make sure he was breathing.

    This type of OCD can be very debilitating for a young family. It can make it difficult to get out and do things as a family, and can cause a lot of stress and anxiety.

    Adam

    Postpartum OCD: common themes

    Postpartum OCD can occur after the birth of a child. It is characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions related to the fear of harming oneself or one’s child. Common themes include fears of:

    • harming the baby through shaking, dropping, or accidentally stabbing them with a kitchen knife
    • contamination from germs or illness
    • losing control and hurting oneself or someone else

    OCD can be a very disabling condition, causing significant impairment in work, school, and other areas of functioning. For women with postpartum OCD, the fear of harming their baby can be all-consuming, making it difficult to care for their child.

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  • 3 CBT tips to help boost confidence

    3 CBT tips to help boost confidence

    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that helps people change their negative thinking and behavior patterns. CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

    I was always a shy person and I never felt confident enough to speak up in a group or to put myself out there.

    I always felt like I was inadequate and that I wasn’t good enough. As a result, I never got the jobs I interviewed for because I was too scared to sell myself or to speak up.

    I felt like I was always missing out on opportunities because I wasn’t confident enough to take them.

    I decided to try CBT after reading about it online. I started by challenging my negative thoughts and beliefs about myself. I told myself that I was just as good as anyone else and that I deserved the job just as much as anyone else.

    I made a list of all of my positive qualities and accomplishments, and I read it every day to remind myself of how great I really was. I also started practicing visualization techniques, picturing myself nailing the interview and getting the job.

    I would see myself walking into the room with my head held high, shaking everyone’s hand confidently, and answering all of the questions perfectly. After doing this for a few weeks, I started to notice a difference in the way I felt. I was more confident and I felt like I could actually do it.

    I went into my next interview feeling prepared and confident, and I got the job! I’m so grateful that I found CBT and that it helped me to overcome my lack of confidence.

    Maria S.

    3 CBT based tips

    One of the CBT techniques that can help boost confidence is called cognitive restructuring. This involves identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to low self-esteem. For example, if you believe that you are not good enough, you can challenge that belief by thinking of times when you have been successful.

    Another CBT technique that can help with confidence is exposure therapy. This involves gradually exposing yourself to the things that you are afraid of or that make you anxious. This can help you to confront your fears and to learn that you can handle them.

    Finally, CBT can also help you to develop healthy coping and problem-solving skills. This can involve learning how to deal with stress in a healthy way, how to set realistic goals, and how to communicate effectively. These skills can help you to feel more confident in yourself and in your ability to manage your life.

  • 3 tips for using mindfulness to help OCD

    3 tips for using mindfulness to help OCD

    When I was first diagnosed with OCD, I was really scared. I had no idea what was happening to me or how to deal with it.

    But my therapist suggested I try mindfulness, and it has completely changed my life. Mindfulness has helped me to be in the moment and to not worry about things that are out of my control.

    I used to obsess over everything and I would constantly worry about what could happen in the future. But now, I’m able to focus on the here and now and to let go of those worries. I’m also able to be more present with my family and friends.

    I used to miss out on a lot of things because I was so focused on my OCD. But now, I’m able to be in the moment and to enjoy my life. I’m so grateful to have found mindfulness and to have made it a part of my life. It has truly helped me to heal and to live a more joyful life.

    Sharon, Canada

    Mindfulness benefits

    When it comes to mental health, mindfulness is often heralded as a powerful tool. And for good reason – mindfulness can offer a number of advantages for people struggling with OCD anxiety. Here are just a few of the ways that mindfulness can help ease OCD anxiety:

    1. Mindfulness can help break the cycle of anxiety.
      For many people with OCD, anxiety can become a vicious cycle. The anxiety leads to obsessive thoughts and compulsions, which in turn leads to more anxiety. Mindfulness can help break this cycle by teaching you to focus on the present moment and accept your thoughts and feelings without judgement. This can help you to start to see your anxiety in a more realistic light, which can ultimately lead to reduced anxiety and fewer obsessions and compulsions.
    1. Mindfulness can help you to manage your anxiety in a more constructive way.
      Mindfulness can also help you to manage your anxiety in a more constructive way. Rather than trying to fight your anxiety or suppress your thoughts, mindfulness teaches you to accept them and work with them. This can help you to develop a more constructive relationship with your anxiety, which can lead to improved mental health in the long-term.
    2. Mindfulness can help you to identify and challenge your anxiety-provoking thoughts.
      Another advantage of mindfulness is that it can help you to identify and challenge your anxiety-provoking thoughts. Once you become more aware of your thoughts, you can start to question whether they are really true or helpful. This can help you to start to see your anxiety in a different light, which can lead to reduced anxiety and fewer obsessions and compulsions.

    Easing OCD anxiety

    If you’re looking to ease your OCD anxiety, mindfulness can be a helpful tool. Here are a few tips to get you started:

    1. Make time for mindfulness.

    One of the best things you can do is to make time for mindfulness. Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath. Once you get used to this, you can start to extend the length of your mindfulness sessions.

    1. Be patient.

    Mindfulness can take time to master, so be patient with yourself. Don’t expect to see results overnight – it takes time and practice to see the benefits of mindfulness.

    1. Find a mindfulness method that works for you.

    There are a number of different mindfulness methods out there, so find one that works best for you. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so experiment until you find a method that you’re comfortable with.

    Combining mindfulness with CBT

    It is well known that mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are both effective treatments for a variety of mental health conditions. What is less well known is that these two approaches can be combined to create an even more powerful treatment.

    Mindfulness is a form of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) that focuses on the present moment. It teaches people to be aware of their thoughts, feelings, and body sensations in order to gain a better understanding of themselves. CBT is a type of therapy that helps people to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

    When these two approaches are combined, people are able to learn how to be more mindful of their thoughts and feelings, and how to change their negative thought patterns and behaviors. This combination of mindfulness and CBT can help people to reduce their stress, anxiety, and depression, and to improve their overall mental health.

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  • 10 most common obsessions of OCD

    10 most common obsessions of OCD

    There are many different types of OCD, and each person with OCD may have different obsessions, or things that trigger their OCD. However, there are some common obsessions that many people with OCD experience.

    I obsessively worry about making mistakes. I also obsessively worry about being embarrassed or humiliated. These obsessions cause me a great deal of anxiety and distress. I have to do certain things to try to relieve my anxiety, such as washing my hands over and over, checking and rechecking things, arranging things in a certain way, and avoiding people and places that I fear will trigger my obsessions.

    Thomas, MI

    Here are 10 of the most common OCD obsessions, and a brief explanation of each:

    1. Fear of contamination: This can include a fear of dirt, germs, or other substances that might cause illness. People with this type of OCD may obsessively wash their hands or clean their homes to try to avoid contamination.
    2. Fear of harm: This can include a fear of injury or death. People with this type of OCD may obsessively check things like appliances or locks to make sure they are safe, or avoid activities that could be potentially dangerous.
    3. Fear of losing control: This can include a fear of losing control of one’s emotions or actions. People with this type of OCD may obsessively check themselves for signs of anxiety or anger, or avoid situations that could trigger these emotions.
    4. Fear of making mistakes: This can include a fear of making mistakes at work, school, or in other areas of life. People with this type of OCD may obsessively check their work or re-do tasks to make sure they are perfect.
    5. Fear of dirt and germs: This can include a fear of contamination by dirt, germs, or other substances. People with this type of OCD may obsessively wash their hands or clean their homes to try to avoid contamination.
    6. Fear of being judged: This can include a fear of being judged by others for one’s thoughts, feelings, or actions. People with this type of OCD may avoid social situations or obsessively seek approval from others.
    7. Fear of harm to others: This can include a fear of harming others, either physically or emotionally. People with this type of OCD may avoid contact with others, or obsessively check on them to make sure they are safe.
    8. Fear of losing things: This can include a fear of losing important possessions or forgetting important information. People with this type of OCD may obsessively check their belongings or make lists to try to avoid losing anything.
    9. Fear of change: This can include a fear of change in one’s life, such as a change in job, relationship, or living situation. People with this type of OCD may avoid making changes or obsessively plan for every possible outcome.
    10. Fear of the unknown: This can include a fear of what might happen in the future or a fear of the unknown. People with this type of OCD may avoid new situations or obsessively plan for every possible outcome.
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  • 5 tips to reduce OCD checking

    5 tips to reduce OCD checking

    It can be difficult for people with OCD to resist the urge to check for things. They may feel like they need to check things over and over again to make sure they are safe or to prevent something bad from happening. This can interfere with daily activities and make it hard for people to focus on other things.

    Opinions on the matter of checking are naturally varied. It is normal to check, and everyone does that. But at the same time, people dealing with OCD have a tendency to check excessively to deal with their anxiety. Various Reddit posts discuss this matter, and while the community has a plethora of ideas, not all of them are actually helpful as a long term solution.

    I’ve suffered from OCD for as long as I can remember. Checking has always been one of my main compulsions. I’ve spent hours every day checking locks, appliances, and making sure everything is in its place. It’s been a constant battle to try to stay ahead of the OCD and keep my anxiety at bay. Over the years, I’ve learned some techniques to help me cope with my OCD, but there are still times when it gets the best of me.

    A year ago, I started using a checking app on my phone to help me keep track of everything I need to check. While this has been helpful in some ways, it has also increased my OCD distress. I found myself constantly needing to check the app to make sure I haven’t missed anything. This has led to more anxiety and more checking. I was in a cycle of checking that is even harder to break than before.

    When I realized this was becoming a problem, I started working on finding a balance with the app and trying to use it as a tool to help me rather than something that exacerbates my OCD.

    Malina, Greece

    Checking and distress

    For people with OCD, checking can actually increase distress. This is because the act of checking can reinforce the person’s beliefs that something bad will happen if they don’t check. Checking can also lead to more anxiety and intrusive thoughts. It’s important for people with OCD to understand that checking won’t make things better and can actually make things worse. If you or someone you know has OCD, it’s important to seek out professional help.

    Tips for reducing checking

    1. Use a timer: Set a timer for a specific amount of time and only allow yourself to check once that time has passed.
    2. Distract yourself: Find something else to focus on that takes up your attention and time.
    3. Create a barrier: Put something physical in between you and what you’re trying not to check.
    4. Let go of perfection: Remind yourself that it’s okay if things aren’t perfect and that you can still function even if things aren’t exactly as you want them to be.
    5. Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to resist the urge to check, it may be helpful to talk to a therapist who can provide you with additional tools and support.
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  • 3 tips for OCD and dating

    3 tips for OCD and dating

    It’s not easy living with intrusive thoughts and OCD. Trying to date people and run a normal life can be even harder.

    Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, intrusive thoughts that can cause a great deal of anxiety. OCD is a mental health condition that can cause people to have obsessive thoughts and compulsions.

    Dating can be difficult for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for someone with intrusive thoughts or OCD. It can be hard to open up to someone new about your thoughts and compulsions. You might worry that they will think you’re weird or crazy.

    I was really excited when I met her. She was funny, smart, and beautiful.

    We hit it off right away. I asked her out on a date, and she said yes. I was thrilled. But then I started to worry.

    What if I said something wrong? What if I did something wrong? I tried to push the thoughts away, but they kept coming back. I didn’t want to screw this up, so I decided to cancel the date.

    I was really disappointed, but I just couldn’t shake the feeling that something would go wrong.

    Ben, US

    It can also be challenging to keep up with the demands of a relationship while also dealing with OCD. You might have to miss out on date nights or other activities because you need to spend time compulsively washing your hands or checking the locks on the door.

    I wanted to go out with a woman I liked but struggled because of weird OCD rituals I was ashamed of. I would avoid touching anything that might be dirty.

    I would also compulsively check things to make sure they were safe. This made it difficult to be around other people and I often felt isolated. My OCD made it hard to relax and enjoy myself. I was always on edge, worrying about whether or not I was doing something wrong.

    Simonne, New Zealand

    It’s important to find a partner who is understanding and supportive. They should be willing to listen to your concerns and help you find ways to cope with your OCD.

    Tips for OCD and dating

    1. Don’t try to hide your OCD from your date. It’s important to be honest and open about your condition from the beginning.
    2. Be upfront about your needs and expectations. Let your date know what works for you and what doesn’t.
    3. Relax and be yourself: The most important thing is to relax and be yourself. Your date will be able to sense if you’re tense and it will make the evening less enjoyable. Just take a few deep breaths and remember that you’re a great catch!
  • 5 examples of magical thinking when you have OCD

    5 examples of magical thinking when you have OCD

    If you have OCD, it’s likely that you suffer from magical thinking. This is when you believe that your thoughts, emotions, and actions can control events and outcomes that are unrelated to you.

    For example, you may think that if you have a negative thought, something bad will happen to you. Or, you may think that if you don’t perform a certain ritual, something bad will happen.

    I am a sufferer of OCD, and my condition causes me to have what is known as magical thinking. This means that I often believe that my thoughts, actions, or words can influence events in the world around me in mysterious or supernatural ways.

    For example, I might believe that if I think about a certain person too much, I can make them have a car accident. Or, if I don’t perform a certain ritual just so, I might think that something bad will happen to me or my loved ones.

    I now know that my magical thinking can be extremely distressing and can cause me a great deal of anxiety.

    Stephan, Switzerland

    Here are five examples of magical thinking:

    1. Thinking that you can control the weather by thinking positive thoughts.

    2. Thinking that you can influence someone’s behavior by imagining doing something bad to them.

    3. Thinking that you can prevent accidents or illness by worrying about them.

    4. Thinking that you can control your destiny by making sure you don’t do anything that could jinx it.

    5. Thinking that you can influence other people’s thoughts and emotions by thinking about them in a certain way.

  • ROCD: 4 tips for living with a person who has Relationship OCD

    ROCD: 4 tips for living with a person who has Relationship OCD

    “I have lived with my partner for four years, and during that time they have been diagnosed with ROCD. It has been really tough at times, as they are constantly doubting our relationship and questioning whether they are really in love with me.

    This has led to them breaking up with me several times, even though they always end up coming back. It’s been really tough trying to deal with their ROCD, as it feels like they are constantly doubting my love for them.

    I have tried to be understanding and patient, but it can be really difficult when they are constantly questioning my feelings.

    I know that they are just trying to make sure that they are really in love with me, but it can be really tough to deal with. I am really hoping that we can find a way to deal with their ROCD, as it is really taking a toll on our relationship.

    I know that they are just trying to do what is best for them, but it is really hard to deal with. I am hoping that we can find a way to overcome this so that we can have a happy and healthy relationship.”

    — Emma G, Minneapolis, MN.

    If you’re in a relationship with someone who suffers from ROCD (Relationship OCD), you know that it can be tough. Here are some tips for living with ROCD:

    1. Communicate openly and honestly.
    This is probably the most important thing you can do. If your partner is fixated on a certain thought or worry, be open to hearing about it. Don’t try to fix the problem, just listen and be supportive.

    2. Be patient.
    ROCD can be a very frustrating condition, both for the sufferer and the partner. It’s important to remember that your partner is not choosing to be this way, and they are likely doing the best they can.

    3. Encourage your partner to seek professional help.
    If the ROCD is severe, it may be necessary to seek professional help. This can be a difficult decision, but ultimately it may be the best thing for both of you.

    4. Take care of yourself. It’s important to remember that you cannot control or fix your partner’s ROCD.
    You can only control how you react to it. Make sure to take care of yourself emotionally and mentally, and don’t hesitate to reach out to friends or family for support.

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  • 5 CBT based techniques to help you with confidence

    5 CBT based techniques to help you with confidence

    Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. It’s most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression, but can be useful for other mental and physical health problems.

    CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and actions are all interconnected, and that negative thoughts and feelings can trap us in a vicious cycle.

    CBT can help us to break out of this cycle by identifying and challenging negative thoughts, and learning to react to situations in a more positive way. Here are five CBT techniques that can help you to boost your confidence and self-esteem, and approach challenges and decisions in a more positive way:

    1. Identify your negative thoughts

    The first step is to become aware of the negative thoughts that are holding you back. These might be thoughts such as “I’m not good enough”, “I’ll never be able to do this” or “I always make the wrong decisions”.

    2. Challenge your negative thoughts

    Once you’ve identified your negative thoughts, it’s time to start challenging them. Ask yourself whether your thoughts are really true, or whether there is another way of looking at the situation. For example, if you’re thinking “I’ll never be able to do this”, ask yourself “What evidence do I have for this?” or “What if I give it a try and it turns out better than I expect?”.

    3. Practice positive self-talk

    Start to counter your negative thoughts with positive self-talk. This might be something as simple as telling yourself “I can do this” or “I am good enough”. When you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, take a step back and reframe your thoughts in a more positive light.

    4. Set yourself realistic goals

    Setting yourself small, achievable goals can help you to start feeling more confident. When you achieve a goal, it will help to reinforce the positive message that you can do things and that you are capable. Start with something small, such as taking a different route to work, and then build up to bigger goals.

    5. Take action

    The final step is to take action and put your new-found confidence into practice. This might mean saying “no” to something you don’t want to do, or speaking up in a meeting. It’s important to remember that you might not get it right every time, but that’s OK – the important thing is that you’re taking action and making progress.