OCD and the World Trade DisasterNEW YORK CITYVOICES: November/December 2001
Return to: NYC Voices Home - 11/2001 Voices
By Lillian Lasher, Program Specialist, MHA in New York State
Last winter, I was diagnosed as having Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a type of anxiety disorder known to most by compulsive actions, like repetitive handwashing. OCD manifested itself in my life, however, in panic attacks, obsessions (sudden, unpleasant thoughts you cannot control), and compulsive thoughts (ruminations — what would commonly considered obsessions). Since then, I have worked hard at treatment and research, and had made an almost complete recovery when the first plane hit the World Trade Center. I'll never forget the pain in my gut as I watched the second plane hit. The rest of my day was spent in a kind of weird panic and sadness.
For three weeks after the 11th, I suffered a harsh depression. I felt a lack of hope as well as sadness and a deep upset at the events around me. I was disturbed by the deaths on the 11th as well as the mindless hatred that followed shortly after.
I also felt a recurrence of symptoms I had just conquered — my delicate recovery was toppled. I began suffering obsessions and ruminations again, even though they had nothing to do with the tragedies on the surface. They were simply triggered by the stress of the situation. I had recently converted to Catholicism, and found myself involved in new religious compulsions.
However, I utilized some coping mechanisms, and they have helped me come through. Now my symptoms are almost beaten down again. Some of these mechanisms are simply common sense, but they all bear repeating...
- Continued, Consistent Treatment. This is always important, but during times of stress consistency is a necessity. It is easy to become distracted and miss a dosage of medication or slack off on your CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, often used by people with OCD). It's possible you are experiencing a depression right now, and the lack of interest and motivation that frequently comes with it. This can make your treatment an uphill battle, but remember that it is the only way to feel better.
- Balance. When you have OCD, you are always on the lookout for behaviors that cross the line between normal and compulsive. It's difficult to tell the difference sometimes under normal circumstances; when there is a real threat of danger, it's more difficult than ever. I usually like to go by my own instincts as much as possible to develop my balancing skills, but when in doubt consult a mental health professional or a person whose opinion you trust.
- Keeping a Distance. Lately it's difficult to escape the news of all the tragedies, but sometimes when your symptoms are becoming exacerbated it's best to turn off the TV or radio and walk away. If you must know the latest news, but don't want to get too wrapped up in it emotionally, ask a friend to update you.
- Spirituality. If you are a spiritual person, this can bring great comfort. Talk to people who share your beliefs, read up on your religion, and attend services regularly. It's very helpful to keep in touch with your spirituality, but remember balance — don't allow your religious practices to cross the line into compulsions!
- Keep Busy. Symptoms often hit hard during idle times. Volunteer if you are able — it's great to feel that you're contributing to the solution instead of simply witnessing the problems. Go to religious services, spend time with friends, take up a new hobby. As a matter of fact, if it's been a while since you've researched OCD, now might be a good time to catch up! You might find new insights that could be helpful to you.
- Don't Stay In. This goes hand in hand with keeping busy, but I feel the need to stress it. Don't let current events scare you into agoraphobia (fear of the outside world). Face your fears and you will feel better!
- Sleep. Always, always get enough sleep if you possibly can. You may have insomnia, or you may be involved in so many activities that you cut back on sleep to accomplish what you want. But symptoms often strike harder when you are tired and your defenses are down, so it's best to get a good night's sleep every night as much as possible.
Keep up the fight! Don't feel guilty about using all the supports you need, and don't be afraid to get help from a mental health professional if you think you need it. Their help can be instrumental to your recovery.
Return to: NYC Voices Home - 11/2001 Voices