Over the past 10 months of recovery from OCD, mainly ROCD with some health OCD themes, I have noticed real progress through being coached by dear Gemma. I have learned to keep building my life structure and to resist compulsions despite strong feelings, physical sensations, and constant DP/DR. This has been especially challenging due to major life triggers such as getting engaged, moving in with my boyfriend, traveling together, adopting a kitten, and changes at work.

This time last year, I broke up with my now fiancé due to constant breakup urges. One year later, we live together and continue building our life side by side. Breakup urges are now either non-existent, or my perception of and reaction to them has completely changed. My beliefs and perceptions are slowly shifting, and I am learning how to live my life despite OCD rather than around it.

I have also learned to accept myself more, and to accept others as they are. I am learning that life does not need to be perfect or exactly how I imagined it, even if I want it to be, and that this is okay. We do not actually need perfection in order to live a meaningful and functional life.

In addition, I have experienced significant financial and professional progress. Despite the challenges OCD brings, I have continued advancing in my career. I am also planning my wedding for September 2026, which is another joyful milestone in this journey, even with anxiety and OCD present.

Maintaining life structure, staying patient with recovery, and having the OCD Recovery community as support has truly been a blessing.