Being with someone with OCD

[cathy023Participant]

I was with someone a while back who had ocd and told me about their scary intrusive thoughts. Now I have an obsession where I am worried I actually have ocd too. I know ocd can be very convincing and these thoughts feel very real but in reality is it all just in my head?

[Forum Moderators]

Forum Moderators here:

Thanks for posting on the forums and we’re sorry you haven’t had many replies yet, but please don’t think you’re ever alone.

If you want to talk to someone who understands, you can also contact the OCD Action Helpline – our Helpline volunteers provide confidential information and support for people with OCD (and anyone who thinks they may have OCD). Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand how it can impact your entire life.

Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478
• email: support@ocdaction.org.uk

You can also find out about support groups on our website. These offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support 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 here to help and support you.

Best wishes,

Forum Moderators

[Forum Moderators]

Forum Moderators here – just checking in, as it’s been a while since you posted your topic.

We want to be sure you know that, in addition to contacting the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service, you can visit our website’s Resources page: https://ocdaction.org.uk/resources/

You’ll find lots of helpful web-based resources on topics such as:

• An introduction to OCD
• Assessment and Diagnosis
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention
• Funding specialist treatment
• Getting a Yes from the NHS
• Good Quality CBT with ERP
• Making the Most of Therapy
• Medication for OCD
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Preparing for a GP Appointment
• Primary Care for Adults
• Reassurance seeking
• Secondary Care for Adult
• Support for Families and Carers
• Treatment Options
• Treatments Not Recommended for OCD
• What to Look for in a Therapist
• Your Journey through the NHS

We hope you find this helpful!

Forum Moderators

[Forum Moderators]

Hello:

We’d also like you to know about this additional support OCD Action offers for you.

OCD Action Support Groups

Online Support Groups:

• Provide a safe and welcoming environment
• Allow you to connect with others and offer mutual support without judgement
• Are all peer led, assisted by a team of trained volunteers.

Who can join?

Anyone based in the UK and living with and/or affected by OCD or a related condition including:

• People who have these conditions, whether diagnosed or not
• Their parents, caregivers, partners and loved ones
• Students aged up to 25 in college / university/ other educational institutions
• Young people aged 16 – 17
• Young people aged 18 – 25

Types of groups

OCD Action offers specialised groups including:

• Pure O – General\Pure O – Intrusive Harm Thoughts
• Pure O – Scrupulosity & Morality
• Checking OCD
• Contamination OCD
• Perinatal OCD
• LGBTQ+ OCD
• Men’s OCD
• OCD for People of Colour
• BDD
• OCD & Autism
• OCD & Hoarding

What important details do I need to know?

• You can sign-up to a maximum of two groups initially. After attending at least once, you’re welcome to sign-up to another group
• Participation is easily accessible via Zoom, or
• If you don’t have internet access, we have a few phone support group places
• There is no charge to join
• Because of the high demand, please only sign up if you intend to use your place(s)
• To retain membership, you must attend a session at least once every three months

What are Navigating Services sessions?

As a Support Group member, you’ll be automatically be invited to monthly Navigating Services Sessions. Attendance is optional, and you’re free to opt out of the session mailing list at any time.

Led by our Helpline team, these sessions include:

• Information and support on accessing recommended treatments through the NHS and/or privately
• Opportunities to share lived experience of accessing support (for attendees or others)
• Answers to questions/concerns regarding recommended treatments and/or service provision

Want to know more about Support Groups?

For more information before you sign up:

• Email sign-up@ebtsupportgroups.co.uk
• Call 020 7253 5272
• See our website: https://ocdaction.org.uk/online-support-groups/

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