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The Paralyzing Effect of False Memories in OCD

oscarwildechild

761d

There’s something so paralyzing about false memories associated with OCD. As in, I feel like I can’t trust myself to know what has and hasn’t happened to me or what I have or haven’t done/experienced. And they’re so vivid! It’s like everything in you is conspiring to make you doubt yourself and your reality.

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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

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    • CactusCat

      747d

      @kool.aid.man I often wonder if events were a dream. I think I'd be more afraid if my memories were vivid, though, and i still couldn't tell for sure what was real.... The doubt is almost comforting. It's emotionally easier to believe something wasn't real that was, rather than believing something was real that wasn't. IMO.

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    • kool.aid.man

      753d

      I feel this on so many levels. But what makes it worse is the ADD that I have makes my memories foggy so I can’t tell if I actually did something or if I just thought of the idea of doing it. It drives me nuts

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      • CactusCat

        747d

        @kool.aid.man I often wonder if events were a dream. I think I'd be more afraid if my memories were vivid, though, and i still couldn't tell for sure what was real.... The doubt is almost comforting. It's emotionally easier to believe something wasn't real that was, rather than believing something was real that wasn't. IMO.

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      • CactusCat

        747d

        @kool.aid.man SAME. The brain fog makes it tough... It sounds rough in is own way either way.... But my goodness, i can hardly remember anything so i tend to doubt the little bits i do "remember" like crazy.

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    • CactusCat

      759d

      This is honestly so scary to me... I didn't know this was an OCD symptom. I've had a few times where my memories don't match somebody else's (i don't have a clue how much else it's maybe happened) and i wonder about reality and perception a lot. It's my biggest fear to be tricked by anything, but especially my own brain... Because, yeah, as you said, how can you trust yourself? I guess that making memories with other people who can help with clarifying what's real and what's not would be really helpful.

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    • Blessedtobeme

      759d

      Omgosh, I feel like crying. Just to know that someone else knows my struggles. I have Tourettes syndrome with OCD and trichle...I can't spell it but I pull my darn eyelashes out. I don't know how I've survived up to now except the belief that my rituals somehow keep me safe.

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    • clayought

      761d

      i’ve totally had the same experience. makes me feel like i’m going crazy

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☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision

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