I’ve written several blogs on this website about my obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD, and the struggles to overcome it. Today I was evaluating about how writing about it has actually affected my OCD. In the long run I can say that it is a positive experience. Not only do I feel less alone, but it is also proving to be a therapeutic experience.
The comments from fellow sufferers have proven to be beneficial and supportive. I have been amazed to find out that some of the symptoms I feel are also felt by others. Sometimes I have been moved to know that others are struggling with this, just like I am. This type of solidarity is not only comforting, but it also takes away some of the aloneness one can feel when dealing with this mental disorder, or any mental disorder, for that matter. In previous blogs I have talked about the stigma of a mental disorder and how that fact alone can make matters worse, unlike what can occur with a physical disorder. I have deeply sympathized with the battle of fellow OCDers who have commented on the blog. Not only that, but I have come to realize that although a person may appear to be very put together in the public eye, that person may be suffering inwardly.
By writing this blog I have come across people who are willing to put their disorder out there, for others to see, in the hope, perhaps, that they can help someone. This is a really good thing because by doing so, a public forum is created to which anyone can contribute. Even those who may be skeptical about OCD can comment on the blog. (So far I have not encountered any skeptics, but the day may come.)
Writing about OCD is also a way to clarify my thoughts on the matter. It puts things into perspective and makes me think that if I can write about it, there is a chance that one day I will be cured. There is no guarantee that will happen, but I like to think so. Once you put things on a site for all to see, those things are no longer a dark secret between you and your therapist, if you are lucky to have one, as I have.
I do write under a pseudonym and don‘t have a photo displayed, because I have an obvious need for privacy, which is understandable. This of course doesn’t detract from the merit of the writing. On the contrary, it frees me to be open and very candid. So it is not only a protective shield, but it’s also beneficial.
The blogs are a reflection of the progress I feel I have made with my OCD. In a way they are somewhat like a public diary about a very real issue. Some are more serious than others, but they all deal with my struggle. I know that all of us struggle with one thing or another, and because of that I hope that this blog can be of help in any way possible to anyone out there.
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Hi,
October 7, 2010 - 1:58pmThanks for your kind words. Yes, please feel free to promote my blog on your website.
Zelda
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I applaud your use of the blog to write about your feelings facing the challenge of OCD. As a therapist who treats this everyday, I hope that more persons with OCD would turn to these new, online outlets. I would like to promote your blog on my website for the benefit of others seeking help and support.
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October 7, 2010 - 10:00amThis Comment