My name is Kyra, and I am a junior in college. I have lived with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) for most of my life, although I was not diagnosed until I was 13 years old. Initially, my OCD manifested through ritualistic behaviors while I was a competitive gymnast. Over time, it evolved into perfectionism and magical thinking, and recently, it has primarily been contamination-based.

During the summer of 2021, my compulsions consumed a significant portion of my days, and the intrusive thoughts were relentless. It was an incredibly challenging period, but I dedicated myself to overcoming the impact of OCD on my life through extensive Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Having experienced how OCD can control and isolate, I am now committed to helping others by creating a safe space for open discussion and support.