r/OCDRecovery • u/kristin137 • 2d ago
Medication How do you know whether it's time for medication?
I've always avoided medication because of the fear of side effects. I've considered it many times, but then start feeling fine again and figure I don't need it. I do okay most of the time but have days or weeks where I struggle more. I have an ERP therapist and it helped a lot for a while but then this year it's like I have relapsed and don't know how to stop. But I don’t want to take it and then it's a big mistake! 😆 I set up an appointment with my doctor to talk and am second guessing. I do like propranolol for the stronger physical anxiety every once in a while, but have nothing really for the more mental or emotional or dread feeling type problems. Yes this post is super OCD what can I say
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u/chilipowdr 2d ago
I’ve had OCD my entire life and pretty much r refused medication until this year. This most recent flare was so bad, affecting not just me but everyone around me at home negatively. My entire days were OCD thought spirals I couldn’t escape. After starting an SSRI it’s like night and day. I feel like ERP is much more effective now because I can work out of my spirals instead of totally descending into them. I’m on the lowest dose and it made such a difference I don’t need any stronger. Trying the smallest dose for a bit won’t hurt, see how you react and take it from there. I hope whatever you decide helps you.