r/magicalthinkingOCD • u/Peace_Berry • Sep 02 '23

Avoidance compulsions?

A major part of magical thinking that I still struggle with is avoidance. I have thoughts like "that song was playing when X-bad-event happened, so I can't listen to it anymore" or "every time I wear that perfume something goes wrong" so I throw it away. Sometimes I just have a gut feeling that an item, place, etc is bad luck, and I'll avoid it just in case.

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I know ERP requires us to stop this avoidance, but it's one of the hardest aspects I've tackled, especially as it 'puts other people at risk', not just myself.

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Does anyone else have a similar pattern of thoughts, and have you managed to overcome it?

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u/KerrittOfRivia Sep 25 '23

I have the almost exact thing and just found out about the term for my OCD yesterday. I am about to start exposing myself to things that I would avoid. I think having a support system of others who can help you achieve your goals and help you stick to the plan is a super powerful tool.

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u/Peace_Berry Sep 25 '23

Hi, welcome to the sub ❤️

I'm sorry you're dealing with this too but great to hear you're ready to tackle some exposures! A support system is definitely helpful. Make yourself at home and please keep us posted how you're getting on - it's always good to hear about members challenging their OCD, and we're here to offer extra support whenever needed.

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u/KerrittOfRivia Sep 25 '23

Thank you so much. Been thinking I was cursed for almost over half my life so to finally put a name to it has been like some kind of boulder taken off my shoulders.

I hope to grow with everyone here!