What does the road to taking your life back from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) look like? It starts with finding treatment that works for OCD—like exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy—and the path after will look different for everyone.
But even though each person’s experience will be unique, they all share qualities that we at NOCD believe are important to recognize. That’s why we encourage our Members to celebrate every win along the way to conquering OCD, and why when they see significant improvements in their OCD symptoms, they reach the milestone of OCD Conqueror due to their progress, strength, and courage.
This collection of therapy wins highlights some of their many inspiring victories. From resisting compulsions to enjoying quality time with loved ones, each win our Conquerors have shared shows the life-changing power of evidence-based OCD treatment and reminds us all that conquering OCD is possible.
OCD Conquerors share their therapy wins
I’ve been driving down a road I was convinced I would die on. And I forget to be scared when I drive it now.
-ElleV
“I was beginning a panic attack last night and I used my response prevention tools to help me.” -Knbutler
“I’ve been eating chicken 3-4x a week! I didn’t eat any chicken (even home cooked) for 3 years. Huge win in my life! I feel healthier in every way!” -athenamoox19
“Eating a cookie! I am afraid I will eat too much sugar and get diabetes.” -Anonymous OCD Conqueror
Gave my niece a proper hug!
-cindy1991
“I stared at knives while having big time anxiety.” -jvfarrell
“Did an ERP after the gym and was able to sit in ALL the feelings (feelings are the hardest part of OCD—mine’s SO-OCD) and survived!” -eshoup
“I’m cooking again. Wasn’t able to cook without panicking for roughly 2 years.” -TR03
I was able to take a vacation and actually enjoy it! I didn’t let OCD ruin the fun of traveling with my wife.
-talzag
“I felt more calmer and happier than ever before… Even though I faced ups and downs I know in the end I’ll conquer more.” -Andres3
“I rode the public bus 3 days in a while visiting a new city.” -RatDad
“I bought a tube of toothpaste with a label that was printed super crooked. Sounds small but for my perfectionism it was a big win. In the past I would have shoved it back on the shelf and had way too much anxiety to even think of buying it.” -Kayti562
Recognizing that all my distressing thoughts and feelings lately are OCD! What a relief. I thought they meant something.
-honeyshark
“Started driving alone again.” -Britney M
“I didn’t remember if I unplugged the toaster oven after using it. I’d just stepped out of the house to walk my 2 dogs. They wanted a walk, not for me to drag them back inside. So I was like well, I guess we’ll see if I burn the house down when we get home in 20 min. …Did my fear come true? Nope, house was there.” -Anonymous OCD Conqueror
“Started a new job today and didn’t overshare any personal info… Seems little but it’s a big win.” -theali-est
Felt like I wasn’t playing piano perfectly, but kept going despite major anxiety.
-theocdguitarist
What will your win be?
If you have a recent therapy win of your own to share, we hope you’ll join the conversation in the NOCD Community or on our Instagram.
If you’re new to your OCD treatment journey, please know that these life-changing moments are possible for you, too. We believe in you and recognize the incredible strength you’ve shown—and continue to show. Please remember that we’re here for you, both to recognize your accomplishments and to lend support in the times you may need it. You’ll always have our team’s support.
To learn more about how we can help you start regaining your life from OCD, book a free 15-minute call with our team.