Let's Talk About Big Worries: Understanding OCD and Anxiety
Hello there! Have you ever had a thought stuck in your head like a song you can't stop humming? Or felt butterflies in your stomach that just won't settle down? If so, you might have experienced what we call OCD or anxiety. Don't worry - many people deal with these feelings, and there are ways to make them better!
What's OCD?
OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It's when your brain gets stuck on certain thoughts (we call these "obsessions") and makes you feel like you have to do certain actions over and over (we call these "compulsions").
For instance, someone with OCD might:
Feel they need to wash their hands many times, even if they're already clean
Keep checking if they've locked the door, even though they know they have
Have to count or arrange things in a special way
These thoughts and actions can take up a lot of time and energy, making it hard to focus on other things.
What About Anxiety?
Anxiety is like having a worried feeling that's turned up too loud. Everyone feels anxious sometimes - like before a big presentation or when meeting new people. But for some folks, anxiety can feel really intense and happen a lot, even when everything seems fine.
There are different types of anxiety. Let's look at a few:
Procrastination: This is when you put off doing things because you're worried about them. It's like saying, "I'll do that important task... later!"
Perfectionism: This is when you try to make everything just right and get upset if it's not perfect. It's good to do your best, but remember - nobody's perfect!
Avoidance: This is when you stay away from things that make you nervous. Like if you're scared of public speaking, you might avoid giving presentations. But sometimes, facing our fears can help us feel braver!
Health Anxiety: This is when you worry a lot about getting sick. You might think every little ache means something serious.
Catastrophizing: This is a big word for always thinking the worst will happen. Like if your friend doesn't reply to a message, you might think, "Oh no, they must be mad at me!"
People Pleasing: This is when you always try to make others happy, even if it means ignoring what you want or need.
How These Big Feelings Can Affect Your Life
When OCD or anxiety are in charge, it can make it tough to:
Concentrate on work or daily tasks
Build and maintain relationships
Try new things
Relax and enjoy life
Get a good night's sleep
But here's the good news: There are ways to feel better!
Getting Help is a Sign of Strength
If you think you might have OCD or anxiety, remember - it's not your fault, and you're not alone. Many people deal with these big feelings.
Here are some things that can help:
Talk to someone you trust: This could be a friend, family member, or counselor. They can offer support and help you find resources.
Learn about your thoughts: A therapist can teach you effective ways to understand and manage your thoughts better.
Practice relaxation: Things like deep breathing, meditation, or exercise can help you feel calmer.
Challenge your worries: Sometimes our brains tell us to worry about things that aren't really threatening. Learning to question these thoughts can help a lot.
Be kind to yourself: Remember, everyone has good days and bad days. It's okay not to be okay sometimes!
You're Stronger Than You Think!
Living with OCD or anxiety can feel tough, but you have the strength to cope! These feelings might seem overwhelming now, but with the right help, you can learn to manage them.
It's okay to ask for help - in fact, it's a sign of strength! Talking about your feelings is the first step to feeling better.
Ready to Feel Better? Let's Work Together!
If you're dealing with OCD, anxiety, or any of the things we talked about, I'm here to help. My name is Monika Breidenbach, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) specializing in helping people manage their big feelings.
Here's how we can work together:
We'll discuss your concerns in a safe, judgment-free space
I'll teach you effective techniques to calm your mind
We'll create a personalized plan to help you feel better
And we'll celebrate your progress along the way!
Want to learn more or chat with me? It's easy to get started:
Call us at (708) 406-9792
Send an email to mbreidenbachtherapy@gmail.com
Or
Remember, taking the first step is often the hardest part. But you don't have to face your worries alone. I'm here to support you every step of the way.
You've got this, and I've got you! Let's team up and show those worries who's boss!
