Religious ruminations

[Guest guest]

My now 16-year-old daughter suffered with severe religious obsessions and

mental compulsions at age 14, was diagnosed with OCD, and has been on Prozac and

is almost completely symptom-free. However, we do not go to church, as that

triggers the stress and anxiety somewhat. She loves God and is very spiritual,

in a balanced way, and enjoys reading about religious ideas, and talking about

religion.

in VA

[Guest guest]

I also have a son that has had scrupulosity type issues. He worried

constantly about sinning or doing wrong in God's sight. He began chanting and

praying

constantly (he might pray 20 or more times in 30 minutes). He would say the

exact same prayer over and over, which would include, " God, please forgive me

for my sins. " He was extremely anxious when we attended church or read

scriptures. During this time, he also developed what I like to call 'tics'.

I'm

not sure they are truly tics, but they stopped when the OCD symptoms gradually

decreased. He would make all kinds of noises. He too, lost one of his best

friends. He had been friends with this boy for the past 3-4 years. My son has

struggled all year to find a new friend. It saddens me that someone so close,

could just up and leave. But at the same time, I can understand. His friend

was unaware of the situation. It was all so new to us at the time, that we

didn't consider explaining to him or maybe even his parents what was going on

with my son. Maybe we should have given him the chance to show compassion.

???? Looking back, I don't know what would have been the right thing to do. I

just wanted to share that I understand what you are going through too. I also

understand the pain it causes our children in so many different ways,

including the loss of a friend or friendships. I believe this is a cruel

disease!

Hang in there!

Corinna in Texas