Hello all,
Like everyone else, I was overjoyed to discover this site and people like me. I have suffered from OCDs all of my life, but only a few years ago did I realize how ingrained they were in my life, thoughts, etc.
I see a lot of people count letters, and I wanted to share my own particular "quirks" and se if anyone else shares these issues:
1. When I see a word, I add up all the letters by their numerical equivalents. However, since the alphabet has 26 letters, my count will "reset" at 26. So, in the word F - I - R - E, it would be 6 + 9 + 18 + 5 = 38, but we loop at 26 so the number is 12. (26 and then 12 more make 38). However, there are also rules. If the 1st letter is capitalized, I double the number and add 5 (3 since the word capital starts with C which is the 3rd letter, and 2 for a punctuation mark). Also, the number 2 is added for every space if I am adding up multiple words.
2. I count by 8s instead of by 10s. I see an eight-dot grid in my head, like two dice showing the number 4. I know where all numbers fall on the grid, since I count on it in a particular pattern. Also, since I now all the number/letter equivalents, I will count by letters or numbers, interchangeably
3. I will repeat sentences backwards by syllable, usually just the last 4 syllables I hear or read but sometimes whole sentences. I like the feel of hearing them backwards in my head (head my in wards back).
4. My head is constantly counting or reversing syllables or thinking of things to do or making lists or worrying or...it never stops!!
I used to think this was all controllable and not hurting my life, but now I just wish my head was clear, I feel I could get so much more done and wouldn't be so tired and irritable all the time - it definitely hurts my relationship.
If anyone has any thoughts/comments, please let me know!!
--Deryl
