Trigger warning: Meds by name for depression and ocd
I finally got my official correct diagnosis! I’ve been running on the old bipolar label since 2006, when my new nurse practitioner managed to put the pieces of my incessant and constant suffering together. OCD. I have obsessive compulsive disorder. I, like so many, thought ocd was a cute, quirky, control-freak, perfectionist personality trait, so I had no idea why she thought I had it. I am the opposite of those things. I did my own research an lo and behold, painful thoughts hounding me all the time, making me cry uncontrollably at least 3 times a day, nail biting, skin-picking, black and white thinking, it was all there.
After a few months of trial and error with Luvox, I swore of ssris for good. It helped somewhat, but made me angry, and very suicidal! I begged her to put me on something else and so Anafranil (Clomipramine) was added and Luvox was removed. After a 2 day adjustment period, I began to feel something I’d never felt before. Self-Love. It emerged through the toxic din of Hellish chatter in my brain, and grew so tall and lovely above it. I still hear the chatter once in a while, but I can easily turn it off. My black and white thinking dissolved overnight. I feel good about my life. I’ve NEVER felt GOOD about my life. Not in 32 years! I havent cried in DAYS!!! Sobbing was a several times a day act since I was a little kid (Thanks mom and dad for not getting me treatment as a child *rolls eyes*) To go days without the throbbing ache in my head telling me “It’s time to cry we have to release the pressure now.” Days without crying quietly at work because I have no choice. Days! This is a record!!
IDK why I’m sharing this. I’m just so overjoyed. All these things most people take for granted, I am relishing. I learned I have a favorite color, and it’s green! I learned I love music, especially classical, where before I’d drive in silence because music disoriented me. I love the gym. I am determined to get stronger (Not slimmer, not hotter, just stronger for me!) Most importantly I can say that i love myself without shame, or doubt, or guilt. I love myself.
This drug changed my life. The future is so vast, and I have plenty of time to fill it up. No more urgency. No more self-loathing. No more dread. I’m gonna make it, and I’m gonna be okay. I have me now. Thanks R.S., the NURSE who gave me my life back.