intrusive thoughts about pets getting hurt
i have a lot of intrusive thoughts of bad things happening to pets, family, friends, etc. the compulsions i perform range from the socks i wear to the music im listening to, and it feels like im being smothered by an endless chain of intrusive thoughts and resulting compulsions.
i recently got two new pets, my first pets that are mine and not family pets, and i am having near constant obsessions that revolve around them getting hurt or dying. i don't know how to even go about facing these obsessions because anytime i try to ignore a compulsion i spiral into rumination over these intrusive thoughts of my pets getting hurt, especially since it's such a genuine possibility. i'm also autistic, so i have an especially deep connection to animals and the idea of my own animals being hurt is enough to completely send me into shambles. it's caused some pretty intense separation anxiety in me anytime i'm out of the room they live in.
has anyone else struggled with something similar? if so, how do you cope? and this feels like a stupid question, but can therapy really help me feel better if my worries are warranted?
@limeflavoredlacroix Hey there! Thanks for sharing, your vulnerability is very admirable, and you are not alone in feeling this way.
As someone who has OCD, and gone through ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) I found it to be very helpful for overcoming constant intrusive thoughts and rumination. It empowered me to see that my thoughts are out of my control, but my actions are in my control. I might think about doing something I find horrible (you obviously have no intention of harming your sweet pets) but in the end, I choose not to do it. I prove to my brain by living how I want to that thoughts are just thoughts, and they don't decide what kind of person I am or what kind of life I will live.
I can't say therapy is for everyone, or that anyone will have the success I feel I am having over my intrusive thoughts. However, I know if I can see progress so can you! I'd love to chat more with you, and I hope you're able to find peace of mind about this. Anxiety and OCD is so so tough, and I wish you the best in your journey!
Hey, I have struggled with OCD throughout my life in different ways. And I would suggest seeking out a therapist who understands and has treated and had success with patients who have OCD. I think the symptoms of OCD can definetely be reduced with a effective treatment with a therapist you feel emotional safe sharing with. Drift 💪
