Suffering with Obsessive-compulsive disorder whilst in Covid-19 lockdown was always going to be a big challenge for me, but two things have saved me.

Me last Summer pre-lockdown. (Image: Andy Lloyd)

For those of you who do not know my mental health story, I have blogged about it extensively in the past.  It is a story of triumph over adversity and has even been featured in the press.

Things were going well with my OCD and I had just seen a careers adviser who had given me the exciting idea of trying to become a copywriter.  Then, coronavirus happened, and I found myself in lockdown. I am a type one diabetic so classed in a vulnerable category.

Being in lockdown was bound to make my OCD worse.  This is because being at home with less stuff to think about can lead to my ruminations worsening.  It is where I catastrophize upon catastrophize about my OCD worries.

OCD and studying

Positive mind occupation is pivotal in combatting this though.  Therefore, online studying proved to be one of my saviours.  I got a Distinction in a Copywriting Diploma. I then decided to do another in the form of an SEO content course.

When I study it forces me to push my irrational thoughts to one side.  I love who I am when I am studying.

Treating OCD with exercise

My other saviour in lockdown has been buying a rowing machine.  As Mind outline, exercise makes you feel positive and joyful about yourself.

Whatever worries I have before I row, I have completely forgot about them by the end.

The rower. (Image: Andy Lloyd)

Studying and exercise helped save me during lockdown. Going forward, I hope they can help save you too.