Harm OCD spike that is distressing me

[recoveryqueenParticipant]

Could really use a friend. For the last two years I’ve had intense intrusive images and urges relating to hurting my cat. I love my cat (even though my OCD tells me that I don’t or that I’m numb toward him) but because of this, everything feels like intent to act on an urge. Shifting position in my bed, walking towards the dryer, walking near gym equipment. My OCD borrows from horror movies from years ago that I’ve watched where animals or innocent people have been hurt. My ADHD meds have spiked the intrusive thoughts and I worry they’ll never return to normal. I’m on meds but I need a better one and I don’t know what it’s gonna take. Please send love

[johna2Participant]

Sorry you are still getting bothered by OCD, but I think you know deep down in your heart that the LAST thing you would ever want to do would be to intentionally hurt your cat. If you really wanted to hurt your cat you would have done it by now. OCD latches onto that which we love the most or find most value in…..the baby, the cat, a friend, your religion etc etc. It’s cruel.

Personally, I stopped taking SSRIs 4 years ago. I was having trouble with anxiety/depression/ocd and my then doctor wanted to double my dose. I was not easy about this as I was getting significant side effects, including constant brain zaps. So I ignored what she said and gradually came off meds. That FOR ME was the right course of action. A doctor friend of mine agrees. I’ve been more or less clear of mental health problems for the last 4 years. I tend now to think of meds as a short term relief. But relevant therapy is more effective. Also, for me, doing a lot of reading has been very helpful. But I guess there is no “one size fits all”. Everyone is kind of unique. Keep the conversation open, and try to get more than one opinion.

All the best. Sending you love. I do remember you and I’ve always thought you are a good person. x

[Forum Moderators]

Hello

We want you to know that you can also contact the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service to talk to or email someone who understands OCD.

Our Helpline volunteers provide confidential and unbiased help, information and support for people with OCD (and their family members too). Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand OCD and how it can impact a family’s life.

Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478 (this is a UK number).
• email: support@ocdaction.org.uk

You can also find out about support groups on our website – these are open to people with OCD and some involve family members too. They offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support and encourage other people too. Our information about UK-based groups can be found here:

• Local independent support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/i-need-support/local-support/
• OCD Action Skype/Phone/Zoom support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/i-need-support/ocd-action-skype-phone-zoom-support-groups/

If you don’t live in the UK, you can look for groups near you on the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) website. Look in the section “Find Help” and then under “Listing Types”, choose “Support Groups”: https://iocdf.org/

And please remember that you’re never alone – OCD Action is always here to help and support you.

Regards,

Forum Moderators

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