[ocean578]

this is my first time here. i found this site a few weeks ago, but i just thought seriously about writing this morning. i guess i'm writing because i know it would be good to talk about my problems, but i'm not seeing a therapist and it's hard to talk to the people closest to me. i've never seen a therapist or been on any medication, but i know i have ocd. it isn't severe, but it does interfere with my life and my happiness. i also have mild anxiety and experience chest pains from that-- i had an echocardiogram about a year ago to make sure the pain wasn't from something else and since having that done and knowing what causes it the pains have gotten less severe. i'm sorry if i ramble, but there's just so much on my mind.

i wasn't always like this. looking back i think i may have had a tendancy (sp?) towards this, even as a child, but it seems in the last 6 or 7 years things have just changed so much. i've been through a lot of rough times with family and friends and even though i can find the good in most of those situations i guess it's really taken a toll on me mentally and physically. after a really bad experience with a certain birth control i am totally against taking meds. i'm very happy for those that are helped by medication, but personally i have to find other ways to help myself. i read a post yesterday that mentioned the book brain block, so i ordered it and i'll have it today. i paid more for shipping than the book itself just so i could have it asap. if it helps it's worth it. i've also learned that my body doesn't handle stress very well. i don't know, i just feel like everything is out of control. and i want to be happy-- i have so much to be thankful for-- i have a nice home and a wonderful husband, the sweetest dog, a decent job, great relationships with my family and friends...and sometimes i'm really happy, but other times i'm completely overwhelmed by what goes on in my head. i don't expect anyone to give me the answers to solve my problems, i know we are all different, but i just wanted to write to people who i know will understand and will listen. thanks for reading this. i'd love to hear from anyone who wants to write back.

[SeptemberMorn]

Welcome, Ocean!

Lot of people deal with their health problems like yours without medication. I'm not one of them. However, those people will be more than glad to tell you what they know, I'm sure.

As for sharing what's on your mind, we're all here to listen, support and understand. Good for you that you found your courage to post! It's a great start!




<font color=blue>"Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt" --Shakespeare</font color=blue>

[(JD)]

Welcome ocean... and, NO you're not crazy!

It's unfortunate that you do not feel safe enough to trust even your medical doctor with a medication that could really help with the anxiety. How do you feel about taking nutriceuticals or herbals? Perhaps a nutritionist or a homepathic doctor could guide you (or even a book) on what natural foods help with calming.

Also, there are things like coffee that make anxiety worse... so I hope you are doing all you can for yourself.

Have you tried guided meditation or deep breathing?

I don't mean to sound like what you are going through is small, because it's a terrible feeling, I know. I'm trying to accomodate your fear of medication.

Come back and post as often as you need to, there are plenty of caring ppl here.

<font color=green> ...slip sliding away... slip sliding away....

[ocean578]

Thank you for your responses. It helps a lot to know that I'm not alone. It's not that I don't trust my doctor regarding medications that can help me...I think it's great that there are meds that have helped so many people, but I know that most meds cause side affects and for me meds are a last resort. Personally I would much rather turn to other methods first and I do use guided imagry and relaxation techniques...as far as that kind of thing goes I will try anything. I'm just more into the natural remedies. Thanks again for the replys!

[SunshineGold03]

Hello Ocean,
I am OCD sufferer as well and I have found great sucess through medication (Lexapro & Klonopin) and cognitive behavioral therapy. I still have my highs and lows with my OCD but it is much better than it use to be.