OCD fears/ Trusting God

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PNWmom

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Hello all. I am married with 1 child, and for most of my marriage have been a stay at home mom. I had a part time job that I was laid off from recently. We are able to survive okay on my husband’s income, but things are still tight.

I have had OCD most of my life. I am being treated for it with medication, which is a lifesaver. I also see a therapist frequently. The thing about this disease is that it is a brain disorder, so it is something I will always have.

But sometimes my OCD fears get in the way of logical thinking.

I am also a Catholic convert of 5 years, and am trying to learn how to trust God in the midst of my OCD fears. The main fear I have right now is of becoming homeless. This has been a recurrent fear throughout my life. Even though there’s no danger of my husband losing his job, I do worry a lot about the “what ifs”. He is supportive of what I deal with, but at the same time doesn’t like to entertain hypotheticals.

I also think I’m too attached to our house, which we are halfway through paying off. I always worry about my husband losing his job, us losing the house, becoming homeless. I imagine living on the street and freezing to death (live in Pacific NorthWest).

I know that as a Catholic I need to believe Jesus will always take care of us. And even though these are fears in my head, there are homeless people out there who die on the street.

Can we still trust Jesus even in dire circumstances such as that? Any advice on how I can become detached from the world and rely more on Jesus? Any books, scripture verses, examples from the lives of the Saints that may help me realize that even if my worst fears come true, I can still trust God?

(By the way, I’m working with my therapist on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help me too).

Thank you!
 
Given your OCD diagnosis it is best if you speak to your therapist about these fears you have.

This is not a matter of finding a way to “trust Jesus”. This is a manifestation of compulsive thoughts. Talk to your therapist.
 
The main fear I have right now is of becoming homeless. This has been a recurrent fear throughout my life. Even though there’s no danger of my husband losing his job, I do worry a lot about the “what ifs”. He is supportive of what I deal with, but at the same time doesn’t like to entertain hypotheticals.
This is where trust comes in. If God allows you to become homeless then this is where you trust Him for why.He allowed it to happen.

Consider reading the story of Joseph in the Old Testament. It shows God can bring good out of evil.

The book of Tobit shows people suffering and life becomes better.
 
I’m very sorry you’re struggling. I’m so glad you’re seeing a therapist.

I think it would be a good idea for you to talk with your Priest, if you haven’t already. Perhaps he can give you some more spiritual guidance.
 
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