What I do to leave the house....

[sarahgotsissues]

It's not easy for me to leave the house.

And when I do I have to ritualize just to feel comfortable.

Before I leave the house I have to check my purse to make sure I have my phone, my inhaler, and a bottle of water. I also walk around and make sure non of the lights or fans are on. If I think there is any power outlet that I think could catch fire I unplug the things from it. I make sure all of the windows are closed and locked. I make sure the animals have food and water and that none of my cats are stuck in closets or in the dryer (the dryer thing has never happened, but you never know). Then I make sure I use the restroom. I check the weather online, I go around and kiss each one of my animals on the head, youngest to oldest. Then I finally walk out of the door!!! I lock the door and check it at least three time to makes sure it is closed.


The sad part it, I have to do this even if I am just going to the gas station.

It makes life so difficult!

So I don't leave the house much, I am exhausted before I ever leave.

[ocdengineer]

Sarah,

You have OCD and really should get some help insurance or not!  I noticed you live near Willmington which is also a couple hours out of Raleigh, NC.  My brother lives out there and I spent last summer's vacation on the beach right down the street from your place.  Crazy huh!  I am from Texas by the way.  I guess my main point is that there are a couple pretty good sized cities in the area and you should be able to find a health clinic in either of those cities, but you have to do some research and then get yourself out of the house.  I wish you luck.  I have OCD as well, I know how you feel and it is horrifying, but trust me, you can live a normal life without the worries of intrusive thoughts and time consuming rituals.  I suggest you look for someone who understands Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and also is familiar with other anxiety disorders.

I wish you luck,
OE