Can't Make Decisions

[relax100]

I never seem to want to make a decision.  Every time I make a decision I treat it like I will die if I make the wrong one.  Can someone offer suggestions as to how to be more at ease with tough decision making?

Thanks.

[In_Circles]

I have the same problem, though the obsession not only pertains to my own death, but also to friends and family.  For instance, I could be shopping for a new pair of sneakers, find a pair that I really like, and then suddenly be smacked with the irrational thought that if I purchase the sneakers, my life will suddenly slide into quick and downward spiral, eventually leading to my inevitable death.  Likewise, the same can be attributed to thoughts towards friends and family.

Beyond the fear of harm towards myself and others, the aforementioned obsession can pertain to virtually anything in my life that I vaguely consider "negative."  For instance, purchasing those sneakers could create the inexplicable dread that I'll never see my grandmother again, or write another song on the violin (I play the violin).  The simple act of purchasing a comforting necessity -- anything, really -- can become an exhausting effort, one that I sometimes avoid altogether.

While I'm consciously aware that these thoughts are ridiculous and irrational, I'm unable to ease the overwhelming sense of anxiety that I'm feeling at the moment.    

[susieq87]

Life is all about choices.  I have the same disorder but it is no longer in the fore front of my mind.  Some of the struggle with choices may be caused by lack of self-esteem.  I posted little sticky notes on mirrors telling myself whatever choice I made would be the right one for me. No longer would I allow myself to choose what I thought everyone wanted me to say.  No more people pleasing.  The libraries are full of self help books with topics on choices and self esteem.

[pleasehelpme88]

i am exactly the same hun.
if i dont carry out my rituals i think something bad is going to happen to my loved ones.
I would suggest medication and therapy.. are you talking to someone or taking meds? diazapam helps with anxiety, but unfortunetly it hasnt worked for me- but that doesnt mean it wont work for you!! It is a very good drug if used properly.
Its hard for me to give you this advice, because we are in the same boat.
However i am always here if you need to talk about it ok :-)
Goodluck,
Pleasehelpme88

[AmorDeJay]

I have EXACTLY the same issues.  I wear white underwear every day because if I don't, something will happen to one of my family members.  I change what I'm going to wear five times in the morning because if I wear one thing, I will die, another thing, my mother will die, and so on and so on.  It's so horrible, time consuming and stressful. And this on top of my debilitating anxiety.