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The OCD Advocate's avatar

As someone with OCD I definitely relate to the propensity of my awareness spontaneously and intensely latching onto things in my external and internal environments, often with the lovely OCD flavor of, "Will this thing cause great harm to me?"

I've found the mindfulness-type strategies you mentioned so helpful, and your piece was a great reminder to practice those things. I love taking meditative walks in nature and identifying as many sights, sounds, scents, and body sensations I can, fully focusing on each one for a moment before moving onto the next. Thanks for your writing!

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David Cooper's avatar

Thanks for the feedback. I’m glad you’ve found something that helps. Enjoy the walks!

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Crosswind Chronicles's avatar

This is great! I’m glad I ran across this. Keep up the good work!

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David Cooper's avatar

Thanks! Will do.

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Inês Caldas's avatar

My OCD was giving me a very hard time today, and self-monitoring is one of my oldest compulsions. I’m new to substack and was wondering if someone was writing about this, hoping to find something that would help ease my mind. This made me feel less alone. I’ll definitely give your suggestions a try. Thank you!

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David Cooper's avatar

Thanks Inês. You're definitely not alone!

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Cole W. Fitter's avatar

yes!! Thank you for writing

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Elham Sarikhani's avatar

Loved the “what’s next?” idea, it feels like such a gentle way to redirect attention without forcing it. Have you found people respond better to that than traditional mindfulness cues?

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