Job searching with OCD
My previous job ended suddenly, without warning. They wanted someone else to teach my class, so after work Friday, i was informed and handed my final paycheck.
This happens, of course, two days after raising the dose of my antidepressant. This poor antidepressant is getting a pretty rough test; needing a new car, friend passing away, pet needing put to sleep, bronchitis, psychiatrist preparing to retire, and now unexpected job loss.
But let's try my "cursed" summer another way. I got a nice, newer car. My friend went to be with Jesus. I got 2 new guinea pigs. I mostly recovered my health after bronchitis, and now I have the opportunity for a change of work.
OCD makes for an interesting job search companion:
"How about this job?"
"No, you don't want that job. You might not be able to handle it. It's safer just not to apply."
"Okay, I'll keep reading. How about a job in food prep?"
"You're crazy, lady. We don't work in food prep. Remember your pizza job? Remember your contamination issues?"
"How about this one?"
"No. A mistake could be too serious."
"This one?"
"Pretty sure that will trigger OCD."
"Well, I have to apply for something!"
"Yup. Try for disability."
"Yeah, but i probably wouldn't be approved."
"Probably not."
"Well, I'm exhausted; i think it's time to call it a day."
"Good idea. But you won't get a job that way. And you've got bills coming, you know."
"Yup, i know, but I'm exhausted and going to take a break. I think I'll do some knitting and tv watching, maybe some coloring."
And thankfully, tv, knitting, and/or coloring are pretty distracting, overwhelming ocd's voice so that i don't hear it as much.
Ugh, sorry to hear it. I'm sure you'll find something great. OCD makes it tougher, but not impossible. Keep us posted.
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