Feeling helpless

[KTOCD]

Hi,

just looking for some friendly advice and company. I've hit a low point and can't seem find anything positive in my day. I feel really helpless and like I'm drowning. I've started to drink more to try to cope. I don't understand why life has to be so hard. What did I do wrong to deserve this? I'm really stuck in a hole. I'm already on the maximum of medication and I'm not getting much from psychology sessions.

[Guest_5218]

Morning KT. Pleased to hear that you are now doing a little better. Sorry to hear that some stress relating to work seems to have pushed you closer to the edge. I hope the extra meds kicks in soon and make a difference.

You may recall from our previous correspondence earlier this year, that I also suffer from OCD. Thankfully relatively mild, but it really makes life difficult when it does get bad. This generally happens for me at times when my ptsd symptoms get worse, and then the OCD tends to kick in with a vengeance. For me it is mainly the compulsive habits, rather than intrusive thoughts. Which is definitely more easily managed, as you say yourself. I think for me the OCD started as a distraction tool when my PTSD symptoms have been particularly bad.

I have found CBT therapy to be of some benefit. And more recently I have commenced an anti-anxiety medication specifically aimed towards ptsd-related sleep disturbances, but it also seems to have helped with the OCD. I am also on a mild AD, but I dont think it helps with the OCD.

Thanks Geoff for the experience and wisdom which you so willingly impart to others here. I often find myself following your advice. (-:

I hope you continue to improve KT and that you can enjoy a nice Sunday.

Sherie xx

[KTOCD]

Hi Geoff and Sherie,

thank you so much for your responses. It's so good to know I am not alone. My OCD is moderate (according to the psychiatrist) however I do definately have better times and worse times. I have not been diagnosed with depression but I really feel low at times. I don't think it is bad as I can still function and attend work. I tend to feel hopeless and like nothing will ever get better or that everything is wrong. I can't focus on the positives in life. Or be grateful for what I have. I try to give myself a kick in the pants and tell myself that I may not be where I want to be BUT I do have a lot more than other people and I should be happy for that. I know it is true but I get stuck in a negative mindset ...maybe it is a bit of obsessive thinking. Not sure.

The last couple of days have been a bit better. The sadness/depression certainly comes in waves. I'll drop my bundle and crash for a day or two then I head back up for a while and then I'll come back down again.

I think the main thing upsetting me is that I am not where I want to be in life and I get really frustrated and angry with things that are holding me back.

anyway, time to jump into bed. Sleep is super important.

Thanks for your support and advice

KT