Overwhelmed again – pests and contamination

[missmoneypennyParticipant]

I have contamination ocd. I haven’t been on here for a while…..I thought I was doing well. Managing the frequency ofhand washing and cleaning better but my phobia of rats, mice and other pests still bubbling away in the background ( i have had mice in the house and rats in the garage, so not completely made up) but I thought I was managing OK. Then, 4 days ago I discovered that local cats have been using my garden as a toilet…in the hot weather too. The stink and bluebottles everywhere…..I went into complete melt down. Got on the phone to my sister literally begging her to help me. I have been anxious lately due to worries about my NEET son and I suppose this was the final straw and I broke. I have picked up the poo I can see and bought sonic repellents for the garden. But I’m struggling to go out there and walk on the grass. I hate this. Hand washing ,checking, cleaning has all ramped up and I am on high alert. I am exhausted because i feel no amount of cleaning is adequate and i am taking risks/ being reckless. Does anyone know if experiencing actual pest infestations can cause PTSD? I swear I have that.  Thanks in advance and best wishes go to everyone trying manage awful feelings like this.

[Forum Moderators]

Hi:

We’re sorry you haven’t had many replies to yet and we want you to know that OCD Action offers other types of support for you.

You can contact the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service to talk to or email someone who understands OCD.

Our Helpline volunteers provide confidential information and support for people with OCD. Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand how it can impact your life. Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478
• email: support@ocdaction.orguk

Support groups for people with OCD offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support other people. Read information about UK-based groups 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, look for groups near you on the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) website. Under “Find Help”, choose “Listing Types”, then “Support Groups”: https://iocdf.org/

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

Forum Moderators

[Author]

Posts