Friends, Family & Carers Forum

[Former-Member]

As a carer what could I do to help support my husband with his OCD type issues @Tim_H
Meds gave him hype and he does not engage with mindfulness. He has lots of little things, lining things up, checking gates, but his day will be ruined if he feels he has not said the right thing at the right time before we go out. When he was bordering on psychotic he would get upset if he did not hug me before we went out the door to get in the car (has BPii +more).

[Tim_H]

Hi Eagle,

I used these strategies under the guidance of my psychiatrist who specialises in treating OCD. I've also read many books on the topic which helped me to understand this type of treatment is the most helpful.

[NikNik]

@Former-Member Welcome! You actually unknowingly have asked the next question for @Tim_H and anyone who wants to answer - What role do family members, friends and support groups play in supporting people with OCD?

[Unqualified]

@Former-Member, have you both looked into changing his medication? My partner also does not want to try mindfulness. We've known about his OCD for 7 years, and he's always been resistant to meditation. But lately, I've found I like to listen to Youtube meditation videos at bedtime. I ask him if he minds, and he always agrees. But for the past few months, he's actually admitted to enjoying them! I think being exposed to it without pressure helped him to give it a chance, then he realised it's quite relaxing, and he sometimes chooses to join in. If not, the sounds are soothing 🙂

[NikNik]

Awesome tip @Unqualified !

[Tim_H]

Hi Darcy,

Thanks for posting. Your comment about not saying the right thing at the right time really reminds us all about the wide variety of OCD symptoms, the disorder is so tricky and comes at the sufferer from so many different angles.

The first thing is to remember this is a significant issue that needs to be worked on slowly, no quick fixes sadly ! Learning how to sepearte the OCD from 'reality' then slowly 'taking on' or challening some of his behaviors will really help.

Perhaps targeting the symptoms that cause the least distress first then slowly increasing the time between thought and compulsion.

[Ngunjima]

Thanks Tim and everyone. I have to go unfortunately. Enjoyed sharing. All the best

[Tim_H]

Family member and friends play a large part in managing my OCD. For many years I only discussed my symptoms with my doctor. However slowly talking more to the people in my life has really helped.

I've also attended support groups many times, which has helped me to learn more about the different types of symptoms and find out what others find useful in terms of treatment.

OCD can be very isolating and scary, so for me talking to others always helps

[Tim_H]

Thanks Ngunjima, good luck with everything

[Former-Member]

@NikNik, sorry I'm so late.  Had hoped to be here on time, but just wasnt to be.

I will go back and read through everything now.