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Sophie E's avatar

“I grieve my childhood” really hits the nail on the head. I think about my childhood, fondly, almost daily and it does feel like a loss to no longer be living in that world (even though I love where I am in life now). I’d never thought of it through a lens like that before 💕

Bailey Savannah's avatar

It’s truly wild how OCD doesn’t get recognized right away even with doctors. I remember thinking I must be the most insane, sadistic, evil person out there because I’m having these terrible thoughts. Terrible thoughts obviously meant I’m terrible.

Trying to explain that to someone on the outside often makes us feel even crazier. OCD is tough enough I could not imagine an overnight change like that. Really lovely and relatable piece.

Emma 🐢's avatar

It’s crazy, isn’t it? It genuinely leaves you feeling insane. I’m sending so much compassion to you 💙

I think for me the overnight change was part of what made it quite so deeply traumatising, it was just so lit of nowhere. Thank you so much for your kind words, they are so so appreciated!!

Bailey Savannah's avatar

To you as well <3 thank god for the internet so we can find people like us who are going through the same shit and can feel a little less alone because of it.

Thomas J. Baker's avatar

Wow. I can feel your emotions as if they are oozing out of my phone. Super interesting and informative. I had no idea about this condition. I’m glad you’re able to write about to inform others and hopefully receive some kind of healing along the way. 🙏🏻

Emma 🐢's avatar

Thank you so, so much. It’s a rare condition that I’m incredibly lucky for it to have even been picked up on by a doctor, as information about it was in its infancy at the time. Writing about it it incredibly healing, thank you for your kind words!

Niamh Cooper's avatar

I read this for a second time after it was linked from another of your posts, Emma. I’m so sorry you had to experience this, and you speak about it so eloquently and so honestly, pouring your heart out onto the page. For goodness’ sake, whatever happens, please keep writing. And please believe that you’re amazing 💕

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Aug 8, 2025
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Emma 🐢's avatar

Thank you so much, I can’t express how much this means to me.

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Aug 6, 2025
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Emma 🐢's avatar

This is such an incredibly kind thing to say, thank you so much 🩵