[pngindreamr]

I really am noticing more and more how fearful I am about germs, chemicals and contamination. I wash my hand excessively and I really hate chemicals. I try to use only natural things. If someone puts something dirty or cleaning products anywhere near dishes or anyplace where I might have food or something that I would consume- I freak out. I worry about getting chemicals in mouth when I clean stuff. My hands are dry from excessively washing them. Does anyone else have this?

[Miswimmy1]

contamination is a very common OCD fear.

I had horrible contamination OCD for a while, before I got help. I suggest that if it impairing the quality of every day life, to seek out a professional. CBT is very helpful is combating OCD.

[The_little_didgee]

You are definitely not alone. I used to have severe fears of food contamination and germs. These fears and worries have lessened a lot with medication and psychotherapy.

My fears were really bad last fall. I couldn't touch door knobs, shake people's hands and be around people who were sick. Preparing food was a protracted task that required a lot of steps and excessive hand washing.

Have you thought about getting help for your fears?

[kirby777]

I hate touching door knobs. I use MY OWN pen when my signature is required. What really bothers me are those electronic signature boxes w/ "pen" attached~bacteria & virus fest. I wear gloves as soon as it is cold enough as well. Also having my skin (if I am wearing shorts) touch public furniture disturbs me.

[IndoOCD]

I am sure I could relate to you *pngindreamr*
I am also one of the germophobic that many of those in this discussion mention.
Basically, I could not stand on touching any public objects, especially doorknobs and money. And I always am very anxious while in public places, especially riding public transportations.
I would always bring a tissue inside my pocket to rub my hands against right after I touched public objects. And it is so difficult for me to deal with when someone gets into my room and touch, hence contaminate my belongings.. And I need to decontaminate them after that.. It is so distressing..
However, the main problem right now is the worry that if people see me doing these compulsions and make fun of me.. Worse, if they think I'm crazy and mock me because of my rituals.. I will get more depressed. I'm even unable to relate to my closest friends and relatives about my obsessions..
So I keep my contamination obsessions in my mind which I have suffered for 13 years..
That's why I find this forum to be a heaven for those who like to relate about their OCD symptoms..
Thank You Very Much for Psych Central to be able to bring this kind of Forum..
And Thank You for those who have shared in this forum and be a help to each others.

And if anyone would be comfortable to chat with me, feel free to add my Yahoo Messenger ID : lgasia77.

I would be very happy if I could be a help to those who suffered from OCD as I know the pain of OCD sufferers..

[kirby777]

I love amusement parks, especially rollercoasters....however log flume rides, or any ride w/water, I will not go on. To me, that water is so filthy. I also have issues w/ public swimming pools....I am fine in the ocean.