107. Why OCD is NOT a Life Sentence with Erica Lugo

Not many people fully disclose their journey with OCD. Perhaps it's the fear of acceptance or the weight of society's stigma that keeps them silent. But what if we told you that an OCD diagnosis doesn't mean a life sentence of struggle and despair? The healing starts with a simple, yet daring act - opening up. 

In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with Erica Lugo, a remarkable guest whose journey with OCD is both inspiring and enlightening. Erica's story begins with an abrupt onset of OCD symptoms that turned her life upside down. She found herself grappling with intense anxiety, sleepless nights, and a sense of dysfunction that she couldn't shake off.

During our conversation, we discuss Erica's journey with OCD. Erica shares her initial struggle with the sudden onset of symptoms, the challenges of accepting her diagnosis, and her quest for effective treatment. She talks about the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of OCD, the impact of her public persona on her decision to be open about her condition, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

In This Episode

• [01:05] - Erica’s Journey with OCD
• [02:39] - Experiences with diagnosis and treatment
• [05:50] - Challenges of finding appropriate treatment
• [05:54] - The impact of hormonal imbalance on OCD symptoms
• [07:40] - The use of ERP therapy
• [11:14] - Erica's experience as a public figure with OCD
• [13:39] - Transformation and healing
• [14:30] - The impact of OCD on life
• [15:19] - The importance of daily practice in managing OCD.
• [16:44] - Embracing the diagnosis of OCD
• [18:59] - The realization that compulsions are not always physical
• [20:02] - The impact of medication on OCD

Notable Quotes

• [01:44] “I'm someone who I felt like I've never had any mental health battles my whole life. I've never had anxiety or depression or OCD until all of a sudden, I feel like a light switch just kind of went off.” - Erica
• [14:49] “In OCD, it's not a life sentence, but OCD will tell you it is.” - Erica
• [15:40] “It is okay to not know what's going to happen next, and it's okay to be okay with the unknown and learn to accept that.” - Erica
• [20:02] "Medication may not work for you, may make you sick or worse, as it did for me, but just keep going because you can get through it without medication if that's the path for you." - Erica

Our Guest

Erica Lugo, known from "Biggest Loser" and as a women's wellness influencer, is a loving wife and mom. Passionate about fitness, she shares tips and embraces all things Halloween and dogs. Erica, diagnosed with OCD, courageously advocates mental health awareness, inspiring others to overcome challenges. Through social media, she spreads positivity, making her a relatable and uplifting figure for those seeking a healthier, happier life.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/
• https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel
• https://www.korresults.com/
• https://www.onlineocdacademy.com
• Kristina Orlova’s headshot courtesy of https://www.corporateheadshots.ai/

Erica Lugo

• https://stan.store/EricaFitLove
• https://www.instagram.com/ericafitlove/

**Disclaimer**

Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!