I wonder if anyone else ever feels like they’re riding a roller coaster that just won’t stop. Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how manic obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can hit me in waves, and it’s such a strange combination of feelings. One moment, I’m buzzing with energy and ideas, and in the next, I’m tangled up in a web of compulsions that feel impossible to escape.
When I’m in that manic phase, everything seems possible, right? I can’t help but dive into projects with a fervor that feels amazing at first—the house gets a fresh coat of paint, I’m organizing everything I can get my hands on, and my creativity feels boundless. But then, like clockwork, the compulsions start creeping in. It’s like my mind is playing a game of tug-of-war between excitement and anxiety. I find myself double-checking everything, feeling like I need to align objects just so, or I’ll spiral into a sense of dread.
It’s fascinating how the mind works, isn’t it? I often think about what causes that shift from feeling invincible to suddenly feeling chained down by my own thoughts. I’ve learned that it helps to have strategies in place. For me, grounding techniques are a lifesaver. When I feel that manic energy surge, I try to focus on my breathing or take a moment to step outside. The fresh air really helps to bring me back down to earth.
Talking to friends who understand this struggle has also been a game changer. Just knowing there are others who can relate makes the load feel a little lighter. I can say things I might usually keep bottled up—like how I feel guilty for taking breaks or how frustrating it is when my mind won’t quiet down.
It’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of my thoughts, so I also try to remind myself that it’s okay to seek help. Therapy has been a huge part of my journey, and I’m grateful for the guidance I’ve received. It’s empowering to learn new coping mechanisms and to understand more about my mind.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s navigated similar waters. How do you manage those ups and downs? What helps you find your balance when things start to feel overwhelming?