Hello all,

It's been months since my last confession....ha sorry, Church joke
from my younger days!!

It's been months since I spoke to any of you, especially you Denise,
so I am sorry. Finished Uni in June, and somehow managed to scrape a
degree in Psychology. Just wanted to say thanks to those of you who
took part in my research, your help mean't I was able to not only win
an award for the best Psychology dissertation thesis 2005, but I was
also able to find evidence of a link between the experiences of
superstition and OCD!!

Anyway, enough about that. How are you all?

Anthony

hello all,


has anyone tried st john wort. has it helped in reducing ocd syptoms.?
pls let me know.

Regards

hello all,

I am new to this group , i hope i will be able to participate with you
all in discussions.i see in the website that there is a chat session
everyweek online.do you all chat through the group or yahoo messenger.

i hope we all benefit from this gruop.

All most everybody worries about what will happen in the future. The
prospect of not knowing if something good or bad will happen to you
in the near future can produce a lot of fear and anxiety. As a
result, here is a list of techniques and suggestions on how to
manage this fear of dealing with the unknown.

The first step is to learn to take it one day at a time. Instead of
worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or
coming month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with
different opportunities to learn new things and that includes
learning how to deal with your problems. When the time comes,
hopefully you will have learned the skills to deal with your
situation.

Another thing to remember is that no one can predict the future with
100 Percent certainty. Even if the thing that you feared does happen
there are circumstances and factors that you can't predict which can
be used to your advantage. For instance, let's say at your place of
work that you miss the deadline for a project you have been working
on for the last few months. Everything you feared is coming true.
Suddenly, your boss comes to your office and tells you that the
deadline is extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before.
This unknown factor changes everything. Remember: we may be ninety-
nine percent correct in predicting the future, but all it takes is
for that one percent to make a world of difference.

Sometimes what we fear may happen can be over exaggerated. A lot of
times, our worrying can make the problem even worse. For those of
you who believe in God, prayer can be very effective. In the end, we
have to leave it in the hands of God. If God wants something to
happen to us, it will happen regardless. All the worrying in the
world will not change anything. All you can do is to do your best
each day, hope for the best, and when something does happen, take it
in stride by using the help of God. God will help us through our
problems if we ask him.

As a Layman, I realize it is not easy to deal with the fear of the
unknown, however sometimes the fear can be worse than the situation.
If you have trouble managing your anxiety of the future, then
talking to a counselor or clergyman can be of great help. There are
ways to help manage your fear and all it takes is some effort to
find those answers.


BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html For free
information on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/

A REVIEW OF TECHNIQUES IN MANAGING YOUR DEPRESSION


By Stan Popovich

Some people have a difficult time in managing their depression.
Sometimes, their depression and fears can get best of them.  As a
result, here is a short list of techniques that a person can use to
help manage their depression.

I was told by a counselor that one of the ways to manage depression
is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and
realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your
fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself
questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For
example, your afraid that if you do not get that job promotion then
you will be stuck at your job forever. This depresses you, however
your thinking in this situation is unrealistic. The fact of the
matter is that there all are kinds of jobs available and just
because you don't get this job promotion doesn't mean that you will
never get one. In addition, people change jobs all the time, and you
always have that option of going elsewhere if you are unhappy at
your present location.

Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting out of
bed in the mornings.  When this happens, a person should take a deep
breathe and try to find something to do to get their mind off of the
problem.   A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read
the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh
perspective on things. Doing something will get your mind off of the
problem and give you confidence to do other things.

Sometimes, we can get depressed over a task that we will have to
perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize yourself
doing the task in your mind. For instance, you and your team have to
play in the championship volleyball game in front of a large group
of people in the next few days. Before the big day comes, imagine
yourself playing the game in your mind. Imagine that your playing in
front of a large audience. By playing the game in your mind, you
will be better prepared to perform for real when the time comes.
Self Visualization is a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a
coming situation.

Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small notebook
of positive statements that make us feel good. Whenever you come
across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a
small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket.
Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read
those statements.

As a Layman and author of an anxiety book, I have done many
interviews with various counselors in how to manage fear, anxiety
and depression. The techniques that I have just covered are some
basic ways to manage your depression, however your best bet is to
get some help from a professional.


BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html For free
information on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/

A REVIEW OF TECHNIQUES IN MANAGING YOUR DEPRESSION


By Stan Popovich

Some people have a difficult time in managing their depression.
Sometimes, their depression and fears can get best of them.  As a
result, here is a short list of techniques that a person can use to
help manage their depression.

I was told by a counselor that one of the ways to manage depression
is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and
realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your
fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself
questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For
example, your afraid that if you do not get that job promotion then
you will be stuck at your job forever. This depresses you, however
your thinking in this situation is unrealistic. The fact of the
matter is that there all are kinds of jobs available and just
because you don't get this job promotion doesn't mean that you will
never get one. In addition, people change jobs all the time, and you
always have that option of going elsewhere if you are unhappy at
your present location.

Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting out of
bed in the mornings.  When this happens, a person should take a deep
breathe and try to find something to do to get their mind off of the
problem.   A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read
the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh
perspective on things. Doing something will get your mind off of the
problem and give you confidence to do other things.

Sometimes, we can get depressed over a task that we will have to
perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize yourself
doing the task in your mind. For instance, you and your team have to
play in the championship volleyball game in front of a large group
of people in the next few days. Before the big day comes, imagine
yourself playing the game in your mind. Imagine that your playing in
front of a large audience. By playing the game in your mind, you
will be better prepared to perform for real when the time comes.
Self Visualization is a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a
coming situation.

Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small notebook
of positive statements that make us feel good. Whenever you come
across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a
small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket.
Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read
those statements.

As a Layman and author of an anxiety book, I have done many
interviews with various counselors in how to manage fear, anxiety
and depression. The techniques that I have just covered are some
basic ways to manage your depression, however your best bet is to
get some help from a professional.


BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html For free
information on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/

Thanks Denise

As I have suggested to Liz elsewhere, if you can't find a daytime group, why not
start one!

One thought I had was what about starting a daytime group at the same venue I am
using for the new evening group?! Please get in touch if you'd like some help
with this.

All the best

Stephen






Denise Woolstencroft <denise_wool@...> wrote:
Hi Stephen

Thanks for the information - I looked it up but there does not seem to be any
daytime support groups.

Liz, there's another organisation called TOP which deals with phobias and ocd -
which has some groups but not sure if any in daytime as I couldn't find any
times but here is the website address   www.triumphoverphobia.com

Denise

Stephen Hosking <stephen.hosking@...> wrote:
Hi Liz

Sorry to hear you can't make it to the new group. Unfortunately I work during
the day so can't personally run one then.

I don't know of any groups running daytime round this area, but I haven't really
looked. However if you browse through these two Support Group listings you might
find one:

http://www.ocduk.org/4/groups.htm
http://www.ocdaction.org.uk/ocdaction/index.asp?id=20

I hope this helps.

Stephen

Liz Evans <tizzkins@...> wrote:
Hi Stephen  i would have loved to have come along to
the new meetings but as i have already found out most
of the meetings seem to be in the evenings as i am
living in Hertfordshire i find it difficult to come
into and out of London in the evenings do you happen
to know of any groups that run daytime, or has anyone
ever thought of setting up a daytime group.

Regards Liz



___________________________________________________________
How much free photo storage do you get? Store your holiday
snaps for FREE with Yahoo! Photos http://uk.photos.yahoo.com


---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


     Visit your group "ocdsupportuk" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
ocdsupportuk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.


---------------------------------







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


     Visit your group "ocdsupportuk" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
ocdsupportuk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.


---------------------------------




---------------------------------
How much free photo storage do you get? Store your holiday snaps for FREE with
Yahoo! Photos. Get Yahoo! Photos

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


     Visit your group "ocdsupportuk" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
  ocdsupportuk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.


---------------------------------




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Many thanks for the information Stephen i will have a
look through.

Regards
Liz



___________________________________________________________
To help you stay safe and secure online, we've developed the all new Yahoo!
Security Centre. http://uk.security.yahoo.com

Hi Liz

Sorry to hear you can't make it to the new group. Unfortunately I work during
the day so can't personally run one then.

I don't know of any groups running daytime round this area, but I haven't really
looked. However if you browse through these two Support Group listings you might
find one:

http://www.ocduk.org/4/groups.htm
http://www.ocdaction.org.uk/ocdaction/index.asp?id=20

I hope this helps.

Stephen

Liz Evans <tizzkins@...> wrote:
Hi Stephen  i would have loved to have come along to
the new meetings but as i have already found out most
of the meetings seem to be in the evenings as i am
living in Hertfordshire i find it difficult to come
into and out of London in the evenings do you happen
to know of any groups that run daytime, or has anyone
ever thought of setting up a daytime group.

Regards Liz



___________________________________________________________
How much free photo storage do you get? Store your holiday
snaps for FREE with Yahoo! Photos http://uk.photos.yahoo.com


---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


     Visit your group "ocdsupportuk" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
  ocdsupportuk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.


---------------------------------







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi Stephen  i would have loved to have come along to
the new meetings but as i have already found out most
of the meetings seem to be in the evenings as i am
living in Hertfordshire i find it difficult to come
into and out of London in the evenings do you happen
to know of any groups that run daytime, or has anyone
ever thought of setting up a daytime group.

Regards Liz



___________________________________________________________
How much free photo storage do you get? Store your holiday
snaps for FREE with Yahoo! Photos http://uk.photos.yahoo.com

Dear All

My name is Stephen and I am about to start up (and, initially at least,
facilitate) a new Support Group for OCD sufferers, in Central London. This will
be with the support of the charity OCD-UK, but will be independently run and
will be open to all OCD sufferers and their family members.

While there are one or two existing support groups in this area we hope the new
group will further improve mutual support for sufferers in London (which must be
massively under-provided for at the moment, given the likely number of sufferers
in the metropolis!).

Part of the reason behind accelerating the launch of the new group has been the
terrorist attacks on London, and we will be looking a little at any impacts
these have had on OCD sufferers.

Full information is available on the OCD-UK Support Group page here:
http://www.ocduk.org/4/groups/centrallondon.htm but is repeated in this email
below:


This group is open to sufferers and family members alike, and will
be an informal meeting where people affected by OCD can talk to others in a
friendly, non-judgemental way.

The group will not offer specific therapy or professional guidance, but will be
an opportunity to share ideas and strategies, and to provide mutual support.

When:
The first group meeting is Thursday 4th August and the next three dates will be:

Thursday 11th August
Wednesday 24th August
Thursday 8th September

then every fortnight thereafter

All meetings will be 7-9pm.




Where:
Function Room,
The Plough Public House,
27 Museum Street (corner of Little Russell Street),
London
WC1A 1LH

Nearest Underground stations: Tottenham Court Road and Holborn

Nearest bus routes: 1, 7, 8, 10, 19, 24, 25, 29, 38, 55, 73, 98, 134, 242, 390.

Upon entering, buy yourself a drink and go through the door opposite the rear
bar, turn left up the stairs, and the Function Room is at the top. The room is
bright and spacious, and out of the way of the rest of the pub. The use of the
room is free, provided people purchase a drink from the bar downstairs.


Contact:
Stephen by emailing centrallondon@... or calling OCD-UK for more
information on 0870 126 9506
(N.B. OCD-UK is kindly taking enquiries on my behalf, but the group will be run
independently)



Map:
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=530120&y=181550&z=1&sv=530120,181550&st=\
OSGrid&lu=N&tl=~&ar=y&bi=~&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf



I do hope some of you who live in London or nearby will be able to join us. Even
if you work in London and live elsewhere I hope the time and venue will allow
you to come along, or even if you are only in London occasionally feel free to
pop in as a one-off. You will be most welcome.

It's fine if you would like to bring a friend along for mutual support.


I look forward to hopefully seeing some of you this Thursday.

Stephen Hosking







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi all!

I know i haven't posted anything for a while. Have been having a
really tough time.

After 6 months have finally just got a referral to the mental health
team in London. The Doc completely f***** up and forgot about it. I
am writing a letter of complaint.

Things have been pretty horrific. And came to a head yesetrday with
my closest friend - we had a major argument in the middle of the
street, with him yelling and me hysterical. I'm not coping and it's
affecting everyone around me. Any advice guys?!

I bought a copy of the OCD workbook. I have to say it's excellent.
Would def recommend it. Have started using it and I really hope
it'll help me in conjuction with my new doctor and my friends.

That new Channel4 show The House of Obsessive Compulsives starts on
Mon. I'm hoping it'll be really good, but i've read reports about
the production company that makes it, and they have a tendency to
take the p***.

Hope everyone is doing well!

Jo xxx

There are times that we encounter fearful thoughts that can be
difficult to manage.  For some people, the more they try to get rid
of the thoughts, the stronger the thoughts become and the more
difficult they become to manage. As a result, here is a brief list
of techniques that a person can use to help manage their fearful and
obsessive thoughts and anxieties.

The first thing a person must do is not to dwell or focus on the
fear provoking thought when it comes.  The more a person tries to
reason out the thought or focus on the fear behind the  thought, the
stronger the thought becomes. The next time you encounter an
obsessive thought, get into the practice of not dwelling on it.

From my interviews with various psychologists, I was told that a
person should visualize a red stop sign in their mind when they
encounter a fear provoking thought. When the negative thought comes,
a person should think of a red stop sign which serves as a reminder
to stop focusing on that thought and to think of something else. A
person can then try to think of something positive to replace the
negative thought.

A person should keep a small notebook of positive statements that
makes them feel good. Whenever they come across a positive and
uplifting verse that makes them feel good, write it down in a small
notebook.  A person can then carry this notebook around in their
pocket and whenever they feel anxious, they can read their notebook.

Our fearful thoughts can sometimes produce a lot of anxiety. When
this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to find
something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the
problem.   A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read
the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh
perspective on things.

Although I am a Layman and not a professional, I have interviewed
many counselors and I learned that there are many ways to deal with
these kinds of thoughts. From my interviews, I've learned that
usually it is the fear behind the thought that gets us worked up.
When dealing with fearful and obsessive thoughts, do not dwell on
the thought.

BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of  "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html
For free articles on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/

What do you do when your fears and depression are stronger than what
you can handle? There are times that no matter what you do, your
fears have the best of you. Here is a list of techniques and
suggestions on what to do when this happens.

The first step is to learn to take it one day at a time.  Instead of
worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week, try to
focus on today.  Each day can provide us with different
opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to
deal with your problems. You never know when the answers you are
looking for will come to your doorstep. We may be ninety-nine
percent correct in predicting the future, but all it takes is for
that one percent to make a world of difference.

When a person is feeling depressed, he or she should take a few
minutes to write down all of the things that he is thankful for in
his life. This list could include past accomplishments and all the
things that that they take for granted. The next time you feel
depressed, review your list and think about the good things that you
have in your life.

Remember that there is one power that is stronger than your fears
and depression and that is the power of God.  A person does not have
to be religious to use the power of God. When the going gets tough,
talk to God about your problems as if you were talking to a friend.
Review the Bible and pray hard. Be persistent and be open in the
avenues that God may provide to you in solving your problem. It is
not always easy, however God is in control and he will help you if
you ask him.

If you decide to use the services of a professional, get into the
habit of reviewing with your counselor what techniques work for you
and which ones don't. Dealing with your fears takes practice so use
this situation as a learning experience in improving your skill
sets.  In every anxiety-related situation you experience, begin to
learn what works and what doesn't work in managing your fears and
anxieties.

As a Layman, I realize it is not easy to deal with all of our fears,
however there are all kinds of help available. The key is to be
patient and not to give up.  In time, you will be able to find those
resources that will help you with your problems.

BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of  "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html
For free articles on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/

Hey I'm new to this chat and mildly Ocd. I've never been to a doctor
about it (but have wanted to start seeing one on many occasions) My
disorder(symtoms??) seems to increase around my parents (and
siblings).
Is that normal? Should I try to say away from them as much as
possible?
I would maybe like to try meditation I don't want to ever take
medication, but I would try an herbal tea of some sort.
<3-TigerLily

Hey I just wanted to tell you about a great company I found!
I applyed for a lower mortgage rate and i only had to
fill in a simple form. This month alone I saved $500 dollars!
check out their site http://www.savecashtoday.net/?a=candi
I hope it helps you as much as it did for me!

Bored? Want to meet someone new? Chat with Real Women in YOUR AREA Just Call

1-800-335-9396

Only $0.99 a min with a major credit card. NO CONNECT FEES!

No credit card? No problem! Just call

1-206-576-1797

Only $0.99 a min with a $4.99 connect fee. Billed discreetly as a collect  call
on your phone bill.

Hi Jamie



Firstly, welcome to the group, you will find most people are very
supportive.

However I think you were harshly treated from the last comments.



You should go to your GP to get confirmation as they can suggest therapy
and/or medication if necessary.



It's very difficult to find out that you have OCD and even more difficult
coming to terms with it.

Constantly touching objects and reading the same thing over is very common
in OCD.



I have been given some great feedback from this group. My wife and this
group have helped me come to the decision that I should consult my GP (after
25 years of thinking there was something not quite right). I am now on
medication and have recently sought advice about CBT although this treatment
is very few and far between. I have been told that self help books can make
a difference and have recently purchased one, I will post the name of it
soon.



Please don't be put off by any harsh words, I think you deserve a pat on the
back for actually doing something about it; this is a SUPPORT group after
all.



Take it easy and keep posting.



Ed



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Article Title: Managing Your Every Day Stresses and
Anxieties

Author: Stan Popovich



MANAGING YOUR EVERY DAY STRESSES AND ANXIETIES

By Stan Popovich

Looking for all of the answers in how to manage your persistent
anxieties and stresses? As an author of a managing fear book, I
found it difficult to find all of the answers in managing my
anxieties. Although I am a layman and not a professional, I have
interviewed many psychologists and clergyman and I have over
fifteen years of experience in dealing with fear.

As a result, here is a brief list of techniques that a person can
use to help manage their every day stresses and anxieties.

Sometimes, we get stressed when everything happens all at once.
When this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to
find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of
the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music,
read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh
perspective on things.

Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small
notebook of positive statements that make us feel good. Whenever
you come across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it
down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in
your pocket. Whenever you feel anxious, open up your small
notebook and read those statements.

When facing a current or upcoming task that overwhelms you with a
lot of anxiety, the first thing you can do is to break the task
into a series of smaller steps. Completing these smaller tasks
one at a time will make the stress more manageable and increases
your chances of success.

In dealing with your anxieties, a person should learn to take it
one day at a time. Instead of focusing on exaggerated assumptions
that may or may not happen, focus on the present and rely on the
facts of the present situation.

Our anxieties and stresses can sometimes get the best of us,
however there are many helpful resources available to us. It
might take some hard work and persistence, but it is possible to
find those answers in managing your anxieties.

BIOGRAPHY:

Stanley Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing
Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" -
an easy to read book that presents a general overview of
techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and
anxieties. For additional information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html


Copyright: 2005 Stanley Popovich

StarryTartan,

Wow, Im sorry I I have made you feel upset as you did seem pretty annoyed in
your reply. Hurting someone or making someone take offense was definetly not my
goal.

I understand that you have not been happy by the way Ive handled my illness.
Keep in mind that I have only realised that there is a problem with me (I  wont
say I have OCD anymore as apparently this can only be assumed if you see a gp)
for a relatively short time in my life and so may not be handling it in the
correct way. This was the sole reason I joined this group and I thank you for
your opinions and advice.

Im pretty sure I do have OCD. I didnt just assume I had the illness without
thinking at all. I did alot of reading on the internet including lots of stuff
on CBT, I emailed a doctor dealing with OCD and read many forums about people
who suffer from the illness. However having said this I agree it possible that I
have some other illness and the only way to find out is to see a gp. So why then
have I kept this such a secret to my family? Its a few things. Firstly I think I
can defeat this illness on my own and secondly I dont know how they would react
if I did tell them. My family isnt the very close, supportive type. There are
always lots of arguments and lots of members are overseas. We have also been
brought up to be emotionally strong and its not the type of family that
encourages expressing our feelings. I am obviously aware that by telling them it
would make things alot easier but its not that easy for me.

I am a little confused to how youve taken offense to my description of the OCD.
If I do have OCD I would still persist that it is a horrible illness. This does
not mean in any way that you or me are horrible and I dont know why youve made
this connection. If a person had cancer I would say that cancer is also a
horrible illness - it does not mean that person is horrible. 'Horrible' is just
how ive described my illness, not me.

I will describe my illness a bit here so that people can have their opinions.
Firstly the illness did not solely occur during my exams and did not 'oddly
enough' dissapear after my exams were over. This is something I live with
everyday but upon trying new things I believe I have made an improvement.

I find it hard to pinpoint exacly what starts my obsession because they range
from absolutely anything. However what I have noticed is the obsessions seem to
work against and get worse in relation to whatever my goals may be eg if I want
to go well in an exam I will worry excessively about not going well and hence
wont go well. - here are some of the things off memory and the included
reasoning behind these wants:

- Wanting to touch a surface over and over again because my brain might 'forget'
what surface felt like.
- When reading a book. Wanting to obsessively re-read what i have just read 
just in case I forgot how the story goes (even though I really know I havent
forgotten)
- Before making a phone call. Obsessively analysing how the conversation is
meant to go and what could go wrong and remembering all the things to say. (I
can waste hours thinking about this) This is reduced in normal calls but say a
call to a girl I like it gets really bad.
- Doing an assignment, writing a resume, doing anything worthy: takes me ALOT of
time as my mind needs to make sure everything is how it should be. Afterwards I
will then over think how I could have written it better / what effect it will
have.
-Speeches - Constantly overthinking what to say to the extent that it becomes
redicoulous.
- More unusual things include trying to see 'images' in my eyes when they are
shut and trying to bite my tongue. Both my eyes and tongue have become really
sore because of this.

These are just some of the millions of things that I can get obsessed over. Now
the reason I think Ive improved is that in the past I really just used to let
these obsessions take control of me, even before my exams. It all had to do with
my response to these obsessions. In the past Id give into them thinking that if
I did that it would all go away. However this of course doesnt happen and it
just comes back stronger the next time you think of it.

However now I try my best NOT to give in. If this is increadibly unsuaul and a
terrible way to handle it please tell me, as you seemed quite baffled and even
annoyed at me mentioning this. If i have a certain obsession Ill quickly tell
myself how Im going to deal with that obsession and then I accept the very
strong feeling telling me to compulse. I learnt that it really does work.
Comparing myself now to myself last year and all the years before that I
definetly have more time to live my life the way I want and not how my obsessive
mind wants. If you think its because i dont have the stress of my exams as to
the reason why things have improved there may be some truth there but I
personally beleive I have improved in general. Im not saying im cured but I know
ive improved.

Im sorry to hear that you think that I have no idea what your going through and
I am a bit hurt only because you think so negatively of my situation. However I
have taken what you have said as good advice. It is still a learning process for
me.

If anyone has any comments / advice / suggestions Id lvoe to hear them.

Jamie











starrytartan <no_reply@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
Hi Jamie,
I haven't posted in a while...but when I do, I usually go OTT.  And,
this might be such a case.  Apologies first and foremost.

I'm glad you found this group and first, please be welcomed to our
group.  My opinions are only that...MY opinions.  So, if I say
anything to offend you, please do not count this as the whole group.

I have some issues with your post.  You say you "self diagnosed"
yourself with OCD.  Have you been properly diagnosed?  There are
millions of things out there that SOUND like OCD, but until a doctor
or psychiatrist diagnose you, I wouldn't treat myself as having OCD.
1> There is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) that can do a great
deal, 2> Just speaking to a dr who knows what he's doing can be a
great help, and 3> Medications help a bunch!!!
You say your situation with OCD seems to get worse during stressful
periods.  This may or MAY NOT be OCD.  Many illnesses can bring on OCD
symptoms, in certain situations, but, again, are not OCD.  It could be
an illness that is certainly OCD related.
You say the fear of doing bad on your exams and took you an hour to
learn something that should have taken a short while.  That could
simply be STRESS.  Depending on how much your parents put on you to
pass the exams, how much you put on yourself...you could simply be
having the SYMPTOMS of OCD, brought on by a traumatic event or situation.
You say you now know how to control it...but don't say HOW you control
it.  And, oddly enough, your symptoms have dwindled now that your
exams are over and you don't have to set them again.
You say you have "learnt that not giving in and just accepting that
terrible compulsive feeling really does work".  What exactly are you
saying here?  Are you saying that you are not giving in?  Are you
saying that you just accept that have these feelings?
And, if you'll excuse me...I have a RIGHT PROBLEM with this next bit:
You write:>>>>>No one knows that I have OCD (not my parents, friends
etc) except myself and now you! I dont think Ill ever tell my close
family.
I must ask...WHY?  WHY haven't you told them?  WHY don't you think
you'll ever tell your close family?  I don't get that part.  AND, if
you did go to doctor and was clinically diagnosed, you would see why
it is so important to tell your family.  Why it is important to tell
your friends.  Hell, everyone I meet, practically, knows I have OCD.
I know it's up to the individual...but 99% of the time, a doctor will
either tell you to tell your family members...or will ask for a
meeting with them.
PLUS, if word doesn't get out and everyone sits back and hides in the
corner, then we're no better off than we were 20 years ago when OCD
was still classed as a MENTAL ILLNESS, which it is not.  It is a
CHEMICAL IMBALANCE.  If we hid it, we might as well go back 20 years
and tape Patty Duke's (Anna) mouth shut.  We might as well go back to
dunking each other in cold water...or giving each other shock
treatment!!!!
Then, you go on to say, you're still on about those exam marks...and
you say "they also know I could have gone better"...WHY?  Why would
have done any better?  How on earth would your parents know what you
are capable of?  Then you say, "but unfortunately don't know why I
didn't go better"...well, I would say that is probably because you
didn't speak up and say I MIGHT HAVE OCD or another illness.  Then you
say "which makes me look stupider (more stupid) than I really am."
Are you saying your stupid because you may have OCD?  Are you saying
that what might beOCD hindered your work so poorly, but yet you passed?
Are you aware that if you are diagnosed, you are classified as
mentally disabled.  Therefore, you have to have allowances made for
you.  When I test for certain things at work, I have allowances made,
BY LAW.  When I passed with really high marks, I decided to see HR
about giving me the test with no allowances, figuring I might do
pretty/fairly well.  Well, I bombed.
I'm no proud that I have OCD and it's certainly not something that I
asked for.  However, because I am mentally disabled, I will use my
allowances that the law made for me.
You also call it a HORRIBLE ILLNESS.  I really take offense to that.
It's part of me, and I have had it since age 12.  To say that my
illness is horrible, it is saying that *I* am horrible...and I'm no.
I am a regular person that happens to have OCD.
You also say that you feel for us...you know exactly what we're going
through.  You don't know what I'M going through.  IF you have OCD, you
haven't owned up to the fact and admitted, really, to yourself that
you MIGHT have OCD.  I've admitted to myself, my husband (at the
time), my now husband, my parents, my family, my friends, my work.
Mainly, to myself.  And, if you'll pardon me...I do not see where you
have "improved".  You're still hiding in the corner...IF you even have
OCD.
You say you have got through it...no you haven't.  Not if it's OCD.
You don't "get through" OCD.  And, it doesn't just last a short while
(even a long while) and then let up.  It doesn't work that way.  I'm
43 years old...and I would not say that even *I* have improved or got
through it.  I've learned over the years to DEAL WITH IT and live with it.



I best stop now, cause I could go on and on and on...but I dinnae want
Denise to ban me...or kick me out.
Mainly, my suggestion to you, is go to a doctor, first.  Period.  If
you've done that, then go to therapy.  If you've done that...go to CBT.

Thanks for listening,
Charmaine/Star




---------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links

    To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ocdsupportuk/

    To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
ocdsupportuk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

    Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.



---------------------------------
Do You Yahoo!?
  Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new Resources site!

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi Jamie,
I haven't posted in a while...but when I do, I usually go OTT.  And,
this might be such a case.  Apologies first and foremost.

I'm glad you found this group and first, please be welcomed to our
group.  My opinions are only that...MY opinions.  So, if I say
anything to offend you, please do not count this as the whole group.

I have some issues with your post.  You say you "self diagnosed"
yourself with OCD.  Have you been properly diagnosed?  There are
millions of things out there that SOUND like OCD, but until a doctor
or psychiatrist diagnose you, I wouldn't treat myself as having OCD.
1> There is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) that can do a great
deal, 2> Just speaking to a dr who knows what he's doing can be a
great help, and 3> Medications help a bunch!!!
You say your situation with OCD seems to get worse during stressful
periods.  This may or MAY NOT be OCD.  Many illnesses can bring on OCD
symptoms, in certain situations, but, again, are not OCD.  It could be
an illness that is certainly OCD related.
You say the fear of doing bad on your exams and took you an hour to
learn something that should have taken a short while.  That could
simply be STRESS.  Depending on how much your parents put on you to
pass the exams, how much you put on yourself...you could simply be
having the SYMPTOMS of OCD, brought on by a traumatic event or situation.
You say you now know how to control it...but don't say HOW you control
it.  And, oddly enough, your symptoms have dwindled now that your
exams are over and you don't have to set them again.
You say you have "learnt that not giving in and just accepting that
terrible compulsive feeling really does work".  What exactly are you
saying here?  Are you saying that you are not giving in?  Are you
saying that you just accept that have these feelings?
And, if you'll excuse me...I have a RIGHT PROBLEM with this next bit:
You write:>>>>>No one knows that I have OCD (not my parents, friends
etc) except myself and now you! I dont think Ill ever tell my close
family.
I must ask...WHY?  WHY haven't you told them?  WHY don't you think
you'll ever tell your close family?  I don't get that part.  AND, if
you did go to doctor and was clinically diagnosed, you would see why
it is so important to tell your family.  Why it is important to tell
your friends.  Hell, everyone I meet, practically, knows I have OCD.
I know it's up to the individual...but 99% of the time, a doctor will
either tell you to tell your family members...or will ask for a
meeting with them.
PLUS, if word doesn't get out and everyone sits back and hides in the
corner, then we're no better off than we were 20 years ago when OCD
was still classed as a MENTAL ILLNESS, which it is not.  It is a
CHEMICAL IMBALANCE.  If we hid it, we might as well go back 20 years
and tape Patty Duke's (Anna) mouth shut.  We might as well go back to
dunking each other in cold water...or giving each other shock
treatment!!!!
Then, you go on to say, you're still on about those exam marks...and
you say "they also know I could have gone better"...WHY?  Why would
have done any better?  How on earth would your parents know what you
are capable of?  Then you say, "but unfortunately don't know why I
didn't go better"...well, I would say that is probably because you
didn't speak up and say I MIGHT HAVE OCD or another illness.  Then you
say "which makes me look stupider (more stupid) than I really am."
Are you saying your stupid because you may have OCD?  Are you saying
that what might beOCD hindered your work so poorly, but yet you passed?
Are you aware that if you are diagnosed, you are classified as
mentally disabled.  Therefore, you have to have allowances made for
you.  When I test for certain things at work, I have allowances made,
BY LAW.  When I passed with really high marks, I decided to see HR
about giving me the test with no allowances, figuring I might do
pretty/fairly well.  Well, I bombed.
I'm no proud that I have OCD and it's certainly not something that I
asked for.  However, because I am mentally disabled, I will use my
allowances that the law made for me.
You also call it a HORRIBLE ILLNESS.  I really take offense to that.
It's part of me, and I have had it since age 12.  To say that my
illness is horrible, it is saying that *I* am horrible...and I'm no.
I am a regular person that happens to have OCD.
You also say that you feel for us...you know exactly what we're going
through.  You don't know what I'M going through.  IF you have OCD, you
haven't owned up to the fact and admitted, really, to yourself that
you MIGHT have OCD.  I've admitted to myself, my husband (at the
time), my now husband, my parents, my family, my friends, my work.
Mainly, to myself.  And, if you'll pardon me...I do not see where you
have "improved".  You're still hiding in the corner...IF you even have
OCD.
You say you have got through it...no you haven't.  Not if it's OCD.
You don't "get through" OCD.  And, it doesn't just last a short while
(even a long while) and then let up.  It doesn't work that way.  I'm
43 years old...and I would not say that even *I* have improved or got
through it.  I've learned over the years to DEAL WITH IT and live with it.



I best stop now, cause I could go on and on and on...but I dinnae want
Denise to ban me...or kick me out.
Mainly, my suggestion to you, is go to a doctor, first.  Period.  If
you've done that, then go to therapy.  If you've done that...go to CBT.

Thanks for listening,
Charmaine/Star