Learning to take it easy; mental health and Islam

[ACEDIslam]

Asalaam Alaykum,

I suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and as a result I can be very obsessive about Islamic practices. I understand that it is always good to keep in mind what is permitted and what is forbidden, however, it is often extreme and to the point of harm and unhappiness.

I must learn to relax and simply do the best I can without excessive anxiety and worry. That's a hallmark of OCD: excessive anxiety and worry. I often obsess over Islamic issues, such as views on evolution and the like. Worrying about hell excessively also causes great unhappiness and turmoil in my mind and heart.

I have dedicated my life to helping others, Muslims and non-Muslims alike. I have been asked to provide support to Muslims experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues, which I will gladly do. My deeds are good and my heart is in the right place. I do my best. The effort is there.

Keep in mind that OCD surpasses the line of healthy worry. We should all have great concern over the life we live as Muslims. However, OCD causes me to worry excessively to the point of great harm and impairment. One of the reasons I left Islam in the past is because I could not overcome this worry.

Has anyone had similar experiences, and if so, how did you cope and overcome?

[Desert]

Cure is to completely ignore it and force yourself to not listen to the ocd thought pattern...