Handwashing/cleanliness & OCD in the time of COVID-19

[RootAnn]

[Please don't quote]

For those who either have this issue normally or have a child or spouse with this issue, how are you coping with the actual need for hand-washing and the increase in anxiety related to cleanliness of items (counters, doorknobs, etc)?

I'm worried that all the progress that has been made is being undone & that it will get worse. We have attempted to not discuss the current state of things in front of this individual but some mentions occur as part of the needs & activities of the household.

[Hadley]

I’m replying mostly to bump your post.  I wish I could offer help.

I, myself, struggle with OCD.  What has helped me is that my husband is working from home.  He’s a wonderful man, but a huge slob.  My obsession has simply transferred to constant cleaning in his wake.  It doesn’t negate my germaphobic tendencies, but it does help distract me 😂.

[hippiemamato3]

The exacerbation will pass. That's about all I have to offer. It's hard, and it will cause a backslide, and it will pass. 

[MercyA]

Severe OCD sufferer here. My medication is working so well that I am surprised to find I am probably not giving disinfecting and hand-washing as much attention as I should. 😬I washed and sanitized and disinfected like crazy when there was virtually NO real threat of anything, and now my worry is so blunted that I have to remind myself. And there's a testimony for Luvox for you. 😉 

If you are all mostly staying at home, I would remind them that there are no new germs coming into the house, and that those who are leaving the house are taking all necessary precautions when they get back (sanitizing hands before coming inside, for example).

Other things that help: staying busy, good rest, exercise, sunshine, vitamins. No food dyes.

Tell them: "This is your brain making you dwell on this more than you need to! We know what to do and we are taking care of it. You don't have to worry."

Edited March 26, 2020 by MercyA