Should I Have Kids If I have OCD & Anxiety
Nov 12, 2019
Addressing Intrusive Thoughts
One of the major concerns for individuals with OCD and anxiety is intrusive thoughts. These thoughts often revolve around feelings of inadequacy or moral and ethical dilemmas about bringing a child into the world. Matt emphasized that these intrusive thoughts are part and parcel of OCD’s tactics to control and limit your life’s possibilities.
Breaking Free from the Limitations
Matt strongly advises against letting OCD and anxiety dictate life’s significant decisions. He speaks from his own recovery journey and encourages individuals to challenge these conditions. According to Matt, living a life controlled by OCD often leads to missed opportunities and diminished experiences.
Challenges and Solutions
It's crucial to acknowledge that having children while managing OCD and anxiety will come with challenges. However, there are effective treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications that can significantly improve your quality of life. Access to these treatments can equip you with the tools needed to manage your symptoms effectively.
Empowering Yourself to Make the Decision
Matt’s primary message is empowerment. Rather than allowing OCD and anxiety to make the decision for you, he urges you to evaluate your desires and aspirations independently. He encourages you to question, “What do I genuinely want?” and pursue that, irrespective of the uncertainties and fears.
Practical Steps to Consider
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Seek Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional specializing in OCD and anxiety.
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Educate Yourself: Understanding your condition can help you better manage it.
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Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your journey.
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Focus on Values: Make decisions based on your values, not your fears.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision to have children is monumental, and doing so with OCD and anxiety adds an additional layer of complexity.
