Is This Normal?
Yes! Don't worry about it! - 100.0% - 1 votes
No. You need to go back to the doctor. - 0.0% - 0 votes
Posted 12/10/2018 8:36 AM (GMT 0)
Hello all, sorry that this is gonna get a little wordy, but context is a bit important here.
So, obviously, I have anxiety. The coping mechanism I've been using all my life is to just pace back and forth for hours (in a very particular way - OCD) until I'm physically exhausted. I have to do this in under very specific circumstances, one of those circumstances being that I have to be completely alone. My basement is perfect for this but is unfortunately filled with dolls and family portraits.
Here's where the problem comes in - these pictures are angry with me and judge me maliciously whenever I'm down
there. I'm haunted by the thought that they want to hurt me, and I'm terrified of touching them because what if I turn a picture around and it moves back when I'm not looking? I find myself unable to wind down with pacing because I'm too focused trying to make sure none of their expressions changes.
Just a disclaimer, I know that this is completely irrational and that, realistically, an inanimate object can't hurt me or feel any emotion towards me. This is why I'm not sure why I'm so paranoid about this.
Is this a "normal" anxiety thing? Or should I go back to the doctor and get my medication adjusted?
Posted 12/10/2018 2:20 PM (GMT 0)
Hello G,
I have never had that with my anxiety. I worry more about my family and primarily my health all the time. Maybe someone here can relate. I think that probably you could talk to your doctor and find help from a loved one to clean the basement so you can find a peaceful place to relax. Best wishes.
Hibee
Forum Moderator
Joined : Oct 2008
Posts : 7935
Posted 12/10/2018 4:12 PM (GMT 0)
Hi
Yes I can relate sounds like a symptom of OCD (Intrusive Thoughts).
I would go back to your doctor and chat things through with them and maybe ask for a referral to a psychiatrist or clinical phycologist to help you. Lots can be done to help and I find that Mindfulness Meditation really does work wonders so give it a go we have some links in our resources.
Also welcome to the forum you will find a lot of good support here from others who can relate to what you are going through.
Keep us posted.
Hibee.
Scaredy Cat
Elite Member
Joined : Sep 2006
Posts : 28868
Posted 12/10/2018 5:33 PM (GMT 0)
Hi GF and welcome!
I have had irrational thoughts with my anxiety. Even when we cognitively understand that our thinking is not sound...that doesn't completely eliminate the intrusive thoughts from challenging us!
I echo Hibee's advice of talking with your doctor about both the possibility of a med tweak and/or a referral for therapy. (return to/refresher course?) Finding and utilizing all possible tools to feel your best is a good goal.
I also echo AnxietyKeller's advice regarding having a family member/friend clear out the basement, so that you can have your safe space while practicing your coping skills. Steering clear of all the things that make us anxious is impossible...and not a practical method of finding relief...
...however, avoiding triggers that are obvious and easily avoidable...such as the dolls and portraits, is an easy fix for your comfort levels.
Post with us anytime for encouragement and support!
Scaredy Cat