anxiety when alone - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

plagued · 01-28-2007, 03:05 PM

im a pure obsessional and have been doing rather well lately with the obsession part of my disorder.but as soon as im left alone with myself , anxiety kicks in. sometimes ill start to obsess but most of the time i just get instantly anxious. my chests starts tightening and my breathing becomes erratic. i know keeping busy tends to stop the anxiety but all i want to be able to do is just watch a little tv without feeling like im going to jump out of my skin. ive definitely been feeling better using the techniques i learned in therapy, meditation and the tips people give on the boards, but i just want to enjoy simple everyday things and time to myself without getting whipped up into a panic. anyone get the same way too or have any advice?

steveo23 · 01-28-2007, 05:38 PM

Haha, I was completely the opposite way... I used to get very anxious AROUND people, even my family.

I guess all you can do is practice spending time alone, just as I practiced spending time with people. Start off small, build your way up. It's all about exposure and facing whatever anxiety you have.

I'm Pure O too. It's great you're feeling better, I know that it's a tough one... not that any form of OCD was ever easy.

Steve

plagued · 01-28-2007, 05:47 PM

thanks steve023 its always good to get a little advice.

ocdengineer · 01-28-2007, 06:09 PM

I have Pure O as well. I take Xanax for the anxiety and so far it has helped a lot. I also meditate in the mornings before work and practice relaxation and thought control. It is called Minfulness Meditation and it really is the only thing I have found that helps with the thought intrusions. Consider doing a little research. It has been very helpful for me and I am about 85-90% normal. I have my bad days especially when I am sick or during times of high stress, but in general I live a fairly symptom free life.

Hang tough. It took me many years to find the correct combo of drugs and self help to get where I am, and whose to say it will last.

Pure O is a very deceptive problem and can catch you completely off guard, so be prepared for anything and don't let the thoughts get the best of you.

Later,
OE