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AshNotRebekah

Updated 1y ago

Dealing with Symmetry OCD: Tips and Advice

Does anybody else have symmetry OCD? If so, how do you deal with the stress and anxiety that comes with it?

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Reeree02

2y

Do you have any exanples? For me, symmetry is often with correcting an object that's out of place. And not being satisfied when trying to organize things, I'll move around my skincare or clothes etc 50+ different ways and it never seems quite right I'll spend hours rearranging the same damn thing even pinterest boards as well as rewriting the same lists. So the #1 thigh i try to do is catch myself in the act / Interrupt it. I take a deep breath and affirm to myself that i have the willpower to take control of my actions and overcome this. I'll try to slowly back away, and think of something that's "More important i could be doing (like taking the dogs out) immediately i try to switch to something else even though i have to fight the urge and it doesn't always work. Overtime it's definitely did and i gradually have gained more" control" over my impulses. feel free to share some examples of your own specific ocd triggers. maybe I'll have some better tips for ya.:)
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AshNotRebekah

2y

Yeah! So, mine is like, say you accidentally touch the wall with one hand. I have to touch it with the same pressure and the same amount of time as I did with the other hand, or I get intense anxiety. I also have to center words on a paper and make my letters perfect. I also do fix things that are uneven, like a pencil that is slightly out of place. Thank you! :)
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kyliee

2y

Yes, one of my subtypes is symmetry, specifically symmetry with my body, and the feeling of being unbalanced, then my compulsions are to do whatever made me feel unbalanced over and over again on both sides until it’s symmetrical. SUPER annoying.
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kyliee

2y

Mine is usually at night when i’m in bed, so I just have to do my compulsions or else my brain wont let me fall asleep.
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Emmy8

2y

Oh my gosh me me me!
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NekoSnowBall

2y

I'm actually dealing with that too so if you find an answer, let me know
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Reeree02

2y

so what's helped me a bit is having thought "Strategies" like the one i mentioned. It Dosnt have to be specially that. But i notice the sooner i interrupt what I'm doing with a thought and action the more successful it is. It doesn't work overnight. But overtime it should help decrease the impulsive Sensation. It's kind of like finding a substitute ingredient if you will. For example red beans and white beans or Wheat flour or almond flour. Your used tonq certainly recipe with a particular flavor. But if u have an open mind to a better result u can try a different ingredient. And then you'll find out the meal tastes better, is krone simple, healthier, and importantly much more satisfying with the "Upgraded ingredient" if that makes sense...
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Reeree02

2y

But first and foremost. If you don't already, you should definitely address the issue with a Dr. And come up with an effective plan/strategy. A psychologist can help u with that, and ofc Medication helps whether it's shorter or longterm. But it's important that medication is followd up with the necisarry strategy/Changes :)

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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