Scrupulosity RE Covid

[CatholicCnvt]

Hi all. I am a 41 year old wife and mother who converted to Catholicism in 2014. I also have OCD which I have been getting treatment for for several years with counseling and meds.
I am finding that I’ve become scrupulous regarding Covid. I live in WA State where our restrictions have been harsh compared to other states. The county I live in has been in Phase 2 for months. My husband goes to work and my daughter will be returning to her small private school next week.
I have only seen people from afar, and we are also dispensed from going to mass, but I have attended once.
Last week I had a Catholic friend over who is tying to help me take baby steps towards living a more normal life again. I know a lot of people who are still seeing a small group of family or friends indoors, which I believe is not discouraged. Part of my fear is if I were to catch Covid and not know it, and unknowingly give it to someone else.
My question is, is it a mortal sin to start seeing a couple family and friends again? Are there any moral resources out there for Catholics concerning Covid?

 

[Cor_ad_Cor]

COVID should be taken seriously, but as long as you are following the recommendations of the medical experts, it should be OK.

You really shouldn’t seek out guidance from the internet for your health concerns or the sinfulness of different things. It can exacerbate any issues you already struggle with, and it’s hard to find a definitive, authoritative answer. (In fact, this site’s terms of service prohibit us from advising you on such issues.)

 

[CatholicCnvt]

I am seeking treatment for OCD.

From what I’m understanding by the replies, it would be best if I speak to a priest directly about this, instead of getting differing opinions?

That makes sense. I was just wondering if there were any Catholic resources on how to handle this current time.

 

[Jen7]

You need to see your physician, psychologist or psychiatrist. OCD works on whatever you believe at the time. As you are now a Catholic is is likely you will have Catholic obsessions, if you have obsessions. There are no religious solutions to OCD just as there are no religious solutions to broken legs. It may help to talk through the religious obsessions with a priest or others. Equally, if you were obsessed about safety in water-skiing it would probably help to talk to an expert in that. But neither could provide a solution, only support, and the temporary relief that reassurance may bring. (To be clear, I am not religious).

This, this, this!! Prayers for your continued recovery! It’s great you are getting professional help - that takes a ton or courage and strength. Keep up the great work!

 

[Jen7]

From what I’m understanding by the replies, it would be best if I speak to a priest directly about this, instead of getting differing opinions?

That makes sense. I was just wondering if there were any Catholic resources on how to handle this current time.

As we say around my house “that sounds like a question your OCD is asking, not you.” Let me turn it around: how do YOU think a Catholic should handle the Covid safety precautions? Chances are you’re wiser than you think! Consult your initial “hunch” before the “what-if monster” starts talking…