If you suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD, it is quite likely that you know and completely understand that the obsessions and compulsions have the potential to tie up a good portion of your time each and every single day. You likely find it quite challenging to deal with time appropriately. This often stems from the fact that you have a hard time transitioning from one task to another task.
Many patients experience this. You may feel as if you are unable to move from one task to another task. Setting priorities is truly challenging because of the fact that you often trouble yourself with tasks that are considered trivial to most. In this mental health guide, you will be introduced to time management tips that will allow you to make the most of your day.
Planning
The first time management tip for obsessive-compulsive disorder is planning. I know you are likely thinking that there is no way to plan as the unwanted thoughts and the need to perform certain behaviors due to those thoughts is never planned out and you never know when they will overcome you.
This much is true. It is challenging to predict when you will need to perform certain rituals. The fact of the matter is that you know what you need to accomplish ahead of time. If you plan to do the things that are of importance prior to the day, you could possibly incorporate those things into some of the “behaviors” that you indulge in to eliminate unwanted thoughts.
This is much more effective than performing unnecessary tasks such as continuously washing your hands or counting items in your home. For example, if you feel the need to wash your hands and the dishes need done, do the dishes and convince yourself that your hands are becoming clean.
Coping with Anxiety
If you have obsessive-compulsive disorder, it is important to learn how to properly manage your anxiety. You do not always have to cope with the stress that is experienced when you experience the unwanted thoughts.
Many individuals will attempt to fight against the need to perform certain actions in order to overcome their stress. It is important to understand that attempting to fight the urges that you have based on the unwanted thoughts that you are experiencing will only result in distress.
Instead of fighting the need to perform certain actions, simply try to perform rituals and behaviors that will assist you later by choosing only those that are considered to be productive. For example, instead of consistently counting objects around your home, incorporate numbers by using them in the kitchen.
You can measure out ingredients, proportions, and servings. You could make an effort to prepare many meals at once by doing this. This will prevent you from having to make time each day. If you follow these time management techniques, you will quickly discover that you are able to make more time for yourself and the things you enjoy rather than devoting it all to the thoughts and rituals that typically control you.
