http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is an ongoing conversation between Andy Burnfield and his wife Julie Burnfield about the topic of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Julie has suffered from severe OCD for over 20 years. Feeder 2.0.8(1206) http://reinventedsoftware.com/feeder/ http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss en-us CC Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License andyburnfield@gmail.com (Andy Burnfield) andyburnfield@gmail.com (Andy Burnfield) Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:40:20 -0600 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:40:20 -0600 Andy & Julie Burnfield Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder This is an interview and discussion between myself (Andy Burnfield) and my wife (Julie Burnfield) about the struggles of living with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The intention of this show is to offer a voice for all those struggling with this disorder so you will know you are not alone. We will attempt to share a small part of our struggles. So subscribe to the show, listen in, and hopefully we can share some hope through community. OCD,Obsessive Compulsive Disorder,Obsessive,Compulsive,Disorder,Julie,Burnfield,Andy,Burnfield,andyburnfield no Andy & Julie Burnfield andyburnfield@gmail.com no http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 44
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome back Shannon to the show for a follow up interview. Shannon has been going through medication changes over the past few months and her story is one that a lot of people will be able to associate with. Julie and Shannon talk about the inevitable withdrawals that happen with medication change and about just how bad it got and how she coped with things. They talk about how long all these symptoms lasted, the OCD issues that popped up because of the decreased medication and the effect the difficult few months had on her family. They end their conversation by discussing how the new medication works in comparison to the old medication and what Shannon has learned through this whole experience. If anyone is on any sort of medication currently or has been in the past for their OCD you will enjoy this show that talks about the not always so great side of coming on and off different drugs.

]]> Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:25 -0600 lwocd-043-lenore-interview-part-2 Andy & Julie Burnfield Shannon Interview - Follow Up In this episode Julie and Andy welcome back Shannon to the show for a follow up interview. Shannon has been going through medication changes over the past few months and her story is one that a lot of people will be able to associate with. Julie and Shannon talk about the inevitable withdrawals that happen with medication change and about just how bad it got and how she coped with things. They talk about how long all these symptoms lasted, the OCD issues that popped up because of the decreased medication and the effect the difficult few months had on her family. They end their conversation by discussing how the new medication works in comparison to the old medication and what Shannon has learned through this whole experience. If anyone is on any sort of medication currently or has been in the past for their OCD you will enjoy this show that talks about the not always so great side of coming on and off different drugs. no 38:30 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 43
In this episode Julie and Andy continue the second part of their interview with Lenore. They talk about her past self-harm issues as well as how her OCD comes through in her various writings over the years. She talks about the situations that make her OCD worse such as being in large crowds of strangers and around her family as well as the situations where her OCD is easier to deal with. She shares about spikes she's had when going through trauma in her life and also about how not many people know she has OCD and whether or not that will change after doing this interview. Lenore's story is one that a lot of people will be able to associate with and one that highlights the bravery and perseverance of a young woman living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

]]> Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:25 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-38 Andy & Julie Burnfield Lenore Interview - Part 2 In this episode Julie and Andy continue the second part of their interview with Lenore. They talk about her past self-harm issues as well as how her OCD comes through in her various writings over the years. She talks about the situations that make her OCD worse such as being in large crowds of strangers and around her family as well as the situations where her OCD is easier to deal with. She shares about spikes she's had when going through trauma in her life and also about how not many people know she has OCD and whether or not that will change after doing this interview. Lenore's story is one that a lot of people will be able to associate with and one that highlights the bravery and perseverance of a young woman living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. no 1:05:42 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 42
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Lenore to the show for the first part of her two part interview. Lenore is a native of New York currently living in Scotland. she shares her story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and how her main struggles have been with intrusive thoughts of death and injury. She talks about her family history and how she believes the struggles of her parents and other family members had to have played a genetic role in her development of the disorder. Lenore shares her experience of recently starting therapy and medication and talks about how this has helped her tremendously get a handle on her symptoms. Her story is one of hope and encouragement for the future while trying to cope with the pressure of family, relationships and studies.

]]> Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:34 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-36 Andy & Julie Burnfield Lenore Interview - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Lenore to the show for the first part of her two part interview. Lenore is a native of New York currently living in Scotland. she shares her story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and how her main struggles have been with intrusive thoughts of death and injury. She talks about her family history and how she believes the struggles of her parents and other family members had to have played a genetic role in her development of the disorder. Lenore shares her experience of recently starting therapy and medication and talks about how this has helped her tremendously get a handle on her symptoms. Her story is one of hope and encouragement for the future while trying to cope with the pressure of family, relationships and studies. no 1:05:42 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 41
This episode is the second part of Julie and Andy's interview with Daniel. He talks about in what situations his OCD is at its best and at its worst. He shares about the impending departure of his two daughters and how he seems himself handling this big change and his plans for the future. He shares about his family and the support his mother has been to him while he has struggled with OCD over the years. More than anything this episode is one of hope for the future and personal perseverance despite the obstacles that Daniel is facing. His strength and character really come out in this episode and we are left with a glimpse into the world of a man whose life has been crippled by OCD yet not crushed. Daniel is the story of what many of us may be going through, the story of living with OCD despite the odds.

]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-37 Andy & Julie Burnfield Daniel's Interview - Part 2 This episode is the second part of Julie and Andy's interview with Daniel. He talks about in what situations his OCD is at its best and at its worst. He shares about the impending departure of his two daughters and how he seems himself handling this big change and his plans for the future. He shares about his family and the support his mother has been to him while he has struggled with OCD over the years. More than anything this episode is one of hope for the future and personal perseverance despite the obstacles that Daniel is facing. His strength and character really come out in this episode and we are left with a glimpse into the world of a man whose life has been crippled by OCD yet not crushed. Daniel is the story of what many of us may be going through, the story of living with OCD despite the odds. no 1:02:50 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 40
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Daniel to the show. Daniel shares his story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and how ultimately it led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. Daniel's main struggles revolve around intrusive thoughts which is made infinity more difficult by the fact that he has two young daughters. This is the first part of a story that will certainly touch you as none has before. This show is here to give people a different perspective on OCD and let them know that not always does this disorder bring people together and cause them to bond, but that it can often separate people and tear families apart. Daniel's story is one of great importance. In this first part of a two part interview you will get to know Daniel as a loving and caring father whose OCD prevents him from living the kind of life he longs to live...a must not miss episode.

]]> Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-35 Andy & Julie Burnfield Daniel's Interview - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Daniel to the show. Daniel shares his story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and how ultimately it led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. Daniel's main struggles revolve around intrusive thoughts which is made infinity more difficult by the fact that he has two young daughters. This is the first part of a story that will certainly touch you as none has before. This show is here to give people a different perspective on OCD and let them know that not always does this disorder bring people together and cause them to bond, but that it can often separate people and tear families apart. Daniel's story is one of great importance. In this first part of a two part interview you will get to know Daniel as a loving and caring father whose OCD prevents him from living the kind of life he longs to live...a must not miss episode. no 1:02:50 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 39
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome back Jennifer and Cade to the show for a couples interview. Cade shares what it's like being in a relationship with someone with OCD and the struggles and challenges that it inevitably presents. They talk about Jennifer's tendencies towards ROCD as well as how Cade realizes when his fiance is heading towards a "spike" and how he combats that. Andy and Cade discuss how they can best support their partners and how they do things many things in that regard that probably go unnoticed. The episode ends with Jennifer and Cade talking about their future wedding plans and how the stress of planning such an event may affect their relationship. They give advice to listeners and co-sufferers about the things they believe are most important when being in a relationship with an OCD sufferer. This interview provides a unique look into the various aspects of the relationship side of OCD.

]]> Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-34 Andy & Julie Burnfield Jennifer and Cade Interview - Part 2 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome back Jennifer and Cade to the show for a couples interview. Cade shares what it's like being in a relationship with someone with OCD and the struggles and challenges that it inevitably presents. They talk about Jennifer's tendencies towards ROCD as well as how Cade realizes when his fiance is heading towards a "spike" and how he combats that. Andy and Cade discuss how they can best support their partners and how they do things many things in that regard that probably go unnoticed. The episode ends with Jennifer and Cade talking about their future wedding plans and how the stress of planning such an event may affect their relationship. They give advice to listeners and co-sufferers about the things they believe are most important when being in a relationship with an OCD sufferer. This interview provides a unique look into the various aspects of the relationship side of OCD. no 1:08:37 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 38
In this episode Andy and Julie welcome Jennifer and Cade to the show. Jennifer has OCD and Cade is her fiance. The conversation concentrates on Jennifer's story this week with Cade sitting in to add his thoughts and comments. Jennifer shares how her OCD is mainly of the Pure O type and how this has presented difficulties for her over the course of her life. She talks about being in education and how this added to the stress of her OCD. She describes what her therapy experience has been like and how CBT as well as different medications have aided in her recovery process. Julie and Jennifer discuss the impact of family on OCD and how being around loved ones can often exasperate their OCD symptoms. The first part of this interview is one of hope and perseverance despite the lifelong difficulties of suffering from OCD.

]]> Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-33 Andy & Julie Burnfield Jennifer and Cade Interview - Part 1 In this episode Andy and Julie welcome Jennifer and Cade to the show. Jennifer has OCD and Cade is her fiance. The conversation concentrates on Jennifer's story this week with Cade sitting in to add his thoughts and comments. Jennifer shares how her OCD is mainly of the Pure O type and how this has presented difficulties for her over the course of her life. She talks about being in education and how this added to the stress of her OCD. She describes what her therapy experience has been like and how CBT as well as different medications have aided in her recovery process. Julie and Jennifer discuss the impact of family on OCD and how being around loved ones can often exasperate their OCD symptoms. The first part of this interview is one of hope and perseverance despite the lifelong difficulties of suffering from OCD. no 1:08:37 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 37
This episode is the third and final part of Nicky's interview. She talks about how each of Charlotte's siblings handle her OCD at this point as well as discusses how she felt when Charlotte decided to drop out of University. Julie and Nicky talk about Charlotte's progress since starting therapy and Nicky shares her outlook for her daughter in the coming months and years. They close the interview by giving some advice to other parents of children with OCD as well as co-sufferers. Nicky shares how OCD has impacted her life as a mother and how she has learned to coped with this disorder in her own way. This episode is the final installment in what has been an intriguing look inside the family makeup of an OCD sufferer.

]]> Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-32 Andy & Julie Burnfield Nicky Interview - Part 3 This episode is the third and final part of Nicky's interview. She talks about how each of Charlotte's siblings handle her OCD at this point as well as discusses how she felt when Charlotte decided to drop out of University. Julie and Nicky talk about Charlotte's progress since starting therapy and Nicky shares her outlook for her daughter in the coming months and years. They close the interview by giving some advice to other parents of children with OCD as well as co-sufferers. Nicky shares how OCD has impacted her life as a mother and how she has learned to coped with this disorder in her own way. This episode is the final installment in what has been an intriguing look inside the family makeup of an OCD sufferer. no 1:08:37 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 36
In this episode Julie and Andy answer more listener questions from the past couple of months. They talk about the holidays and how many people with OCD seem to struggle at this time for various reasons. Julie answers a questions about Vitamin B being shown to help with OCD symptoms and also a question about how relabeling OCD as anxiety can help as far as therapy and recovery goes. They discuss the issue of focusing and learning and whether a person with OCD learns differently than a person without OCD. This leads into an interesting discussion of "brain pain" vs. "brain numbness" and the value Julie has come to place on this numbness apparently at the cost of certain goals and aspirations. They close out the show talking about social phobia, the most distressing part of OCD and Andy and Julie's favorite analogies for the disorder. Another thought provoking episode based on great listener questions.

]]> Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-31 Andy & Julie Burnfield Question and Answer Show - Part 5 In this episode Julie and Andy answer more listener questions from the past couple of months. They talk about the holidays and how many people with OCD seem to struggle at this time for various reasons. Julie answers a questions about Vitamin B being shown to help with OCD symptoms and also a question about how relabeling OCD as anxiety can help as far as therapy and recovery goes. They discuss the issue of focusing and learning and whether a person with OCD learns differently than a person without OCD. This leads into an interesting discussion of "brain pain" vs. "brain numbness" and the value Julie has come to place on this numbness apparently at the cost of certain goals and aspirations. They close out the show talking about social phobia, the most distressing part of OCD and Andy and Julie's favorite analogies for the disorder. Another thought provoking episode based on great listener questions. no 1:07:10 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 35
This week Andy and Julie continue their conversation with Nicky, the mother of Charlotte who suffers from OCD. In this second part of her episode they talk about the progress Charlotte has made over the past month and how immensely this has helped the family dynamic. Nicky discusses how communication is so important and how essential it is to stand up to the OCD for your child and not let it win the daily battle. She gives advice on how to differentiate between what is your child and what is OCD as well as how much a parent should cater to their child's compulsions. The key phrase that permeates this episode is that sometimes "you have to be cruel to be kind" when it comes to being a co-sufferer. Nicky shares her feelings on how her daughter's OCD makes her feel helpless but how there is always light at the end of the tunnel if you just hold on long enough and find the support and help that you need.

]]> Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-30 Andy & Julie Burnfield Nicky Interview - Part 2 This week Andy and Julie continue their conversation with Nicky, the mother of Charlotte who suffers from OCD. In this second part of her episode they talk about the progress Charlotte has made over the past month and how immensely this has helped the family dynamic. Nicky discusses how communication is so important and how essential it is to stand up to the OCD for your child and not let it win the daily battle. She gives advice on how to differentiate between what is your child and what is OCD as well as how much a parent should cater to their child's compulsions. The key phrase that permeates this episode is that sometimes "you have to be cruel to be kind" when it comes to being a co-sufferer. Nicky shares her feelings on how her daughter's OCD makes her feel helpless but how there is always light at the end of the tunnel if you just hold on long enough and find the support and help that you need. no 1:16:45 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 34
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Nicky to their show. Nicky is the mother of Charlotte who was a guest a few weeks ago. Charlotte also participates in the interview with her mother and the result is an interesting perspective on OCD and the family dynamic. Julie and Nicky talk about Charlotte's childhood and what she was like growing up. They talk about her diagnosis and how that made Nicky feel as a mother. The sibling dynamic is also discussed as well as how Charlotte managed as a teenager and how she always sought perfection in school and was never satisfied no matter how well she did. There is a lot of laughter in this episode and the importance of open communication and the support of family and friends in the life of an OCD sufferer is emphasized. This is the first part of Nicky's interview and is one that is sure to be extremely helpful for any co-sufferer seeking to help and support someone in their life with OCD.

]]> Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-29 Andy & Julie Burnfield Nicky Interview - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome Nicky to their show. Nicky is the mother of Charlotte who was a guest a few weeks ago. Charlotte also participates in the interview with her mother and the result is an interesting perspective on OCD and the family dynamic. Julie and Nicky talk about Charlotte's childhood and what she was like growing up. They talk about her diagnosis and how that made Nicky feel as a mother. The sibling dynamic is also discussed as well as how Charlotte managed as a teenager and how she always sought perfection in school and was never satisfied no matter how well she did. There is a lot of laughter in this episode and the importance of open communication and the support of family and friends in the life of an OCD sufferer is emphasized. This is the first part of Nicky's interview and is one that is sure to be extremely helpful for any co-sufferer seeking to help and support someone in their life with OCD. no 42:07 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 33
This episode is another part in the continuation of Andy and Julie answering listener questions. The question posed today is "are there any other areas of your life affected by OCD that you may not have talked about?" and what follows is a lively discussion which Julie likes to term her "obsessional confessional." She talks about her obsession with safety and locking every car door as well as her obsessive need to think her thoughts in order to get a task done. She discusses how OCD affects her when looking at pictures of herself and how her need for neatness and evenness crops up when it comes to eating food. Other topics covered included the obsession of counting things on fingers, office neatness and appearance, Facebook updates and skin picking. A wide variety of topics are discussed in this episode to the extent that even Andy is surprised by some of them. Today's conversation is another good reminder of how OCD can affect even the most minute areas of a person's life.

]]> Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-28 Andy & Julie Burnfield Question and Answer Show - Part 4 This episode is another part in the continuation of Andy and Julie answering listener questions. The question posed today is "are there any other areas of your life affected by OCD that you may not have talked about?" and what follows is a lively discussion which Julie likes to term her "obsessional confessional." She talks about her obsession with safety and locking every car door as well as her obsessive need to think her thoughts in order to get a task done. She discusses how OCD affects her when looking at pictures of herself and how her need for neatness and evenness crops up when it comes to eating food. Other topics covered included the obsession of counting things on fingers, office neatness and appearance, Facebook updates and skin picking. A wide variety of topics are discussed in this episode to the extent that even Andy is surprised by some of them. Today's conversation is another good reminder of how OCD can affect even the most minute areas of a person's life. no 42:07 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 32
In this episode Julie and Andy continue with their listener interview questions. They give an update on Julie's pregnancy and how that is doing in regards to her OCD and general level of anxiety. Julie talks about that feeling that something is just "not right" in regards to relationships and how that can build over time until she is forced to "spew" everything to the complete surprise of those around her. She also talks about how random thoughts and comments seem to come out of nowhere when engaged in general everyday conversation and the thought patterns behind this. Having a vivid memory is also talked about in this episode as well as how Julie deals with Andy's female friends and ROCD. They end the show by talking about dreams that just seem so real they stick with you the whole day and take an extreme emotional toll, strangely these dreams always seem to revolve around OCD issues. This episode explores the answers to another set of interesting listener questions.

]]> Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:23 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-27 Andy & Julie Burnfield Question and Answer Show - Part 3 In this episode Julie and Andy continue with their listener interview questions. They give an update on Julie's pregnancy and how that is doing in regards to her OCD and general level of anxiety. Julie talks about that feeling that something is just "not right" in regards to relationships and how that can build over time until she is forced to "spew" everything to the complete surprise of those around her. She also talks about how random thoughts and comments seem to come out of nowhere when engaged in general everyday conversation and the thought patterns behind this. Having a vivid memory is also talked about in this episode as well as how Julie deals with Andy's female friends and ROCD. They end the show by talking about dreams that just seem so real they stick with you the whole day and take an extreme emotional toll, strangely these dreams always seem to revolve around OCD issues. This episode explores the answers to another set of interesting listener questions. no 42:07 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 31
This is the second part of Julie and Andy's question and answer show. Julie is asked if she has given any more thought about starting therapy again which leads into a discussion of some recent events where she did indeed start seeing someone. She talks about the first session that went quite well and then about the second session where things got a little strange. This leads to some lively discussion with Andy which turns out to be quite amusing. Andy answers a questions about how to know how much reassurance and reenforcement to give to an OCD sufferer. Julie answers a question about acceptance in relationships and whether this is related to OCD at all. She also talks about how difficult it is to feel loved for just being her when so much of herself is entwined with OCD. This episode covers a wide variety of topics but it sure to stimulate thoughts about different areas of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:13 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-26 Andy & Julie Burnfield Listener Questions - Part 2 This is the second part of Julie and Andy's question and answer show. Julie is asked if she has given any more thought about starting therapy again which leads into a discussion of some recent events where she did indeed start seeing someone. She talks about the first session that went quite well and then about the second session where things got a little strange. This leads to some lively discussion with Andy which turns out to be quite amusing. Andy answers a questions about how to know how much reassurance and reenforcement to give to an OCD sufferer. Julie answers a question about acceptance in relationships and whether this is related to OCD at all. She also talks about how difficult it is to feel loved for just being her when so much of herself is entwined with OCD. This episode covers a wide variety of topics but it sure to stimulate thoughts about different areas of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. no 46:52 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 30
This week Julie and Andy continue their conversation with Charlotte in France. They talk about how Charlotte is very involved in awareness groups for OCD including OCDUK.org. She shares how she recently went to their conference and some of what took place there over two days. She talks about how she edits the "Compulsively Yours" magazine and about her blog obsessivelycompulsivelyyours.blogspot.com. They talk about avoidance and how this is a big issue for Charlotte as well as how OCD has stigmatized her. A lot of time is spent talking about Charlotte's family and how they are affected by her struggles. She shares her thoughts on whether she will let people know about her interview on the podcast and how she sees her future in terms of her OCD. She mentions the book " Overcoming OCD" by Dr. David Veale highly recommends it for other listeners. Charlotte shares her view on OCD being managed and not cured and ends the show by giving some advice to listeners. This episode is a great conclusion to Charlotte's two part interview on her daily struggles with OCD.

]]> Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:13 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-25 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Charlotte - Part 2 This week Julie and Andy continue their conversation with Charlotte in France. They talk about how Charlotte is very involved in awareness groups for OCD including OCDUK.org. She shares how she recently went to their conference and some of what took place there over two days. She talks about how she edits the "Compulsively Yours" magazine and about her blog obsessivelycompulsivelyyours.blogspot.com. They talk about avoidance and how this is a big issue for Charlotte as well as how OCD has stigmatized her. A lot of time is spent talking about Charlotte's family and how they are affected by her struggles. She shares her thoughts on whether she will let people know about her interview on the podcast and how she sees her future in terms of her OCD. She mentions the book " Overcoming OCD" by Dr. David Veale highly recommends it for other listeners. Charlotte shares her view on OCD being managed and not cured and ends the show by giving some advice to listeners. This episode is a great conclusion to Charlotte's two part interview on her daily struggles with OCD. no 47:24 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 29
In this episode Andy and Julie welcome their first international guest, Charlotte to the show. Charlotte is an English student living in France and openly shares her story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Charlotte talks about how at it's worst her OCD has made her clean her room for 3 or more hours a day and also how recently she made the very difficult decision to drop out of University in order to get a handle on her OCD. She talks about her family life and how two serious accidents involving her brothers caused her OCD to become much worse. She shares her past negative experiences with therapy and also her experience with a new therapist who she has really been able to connect with. They discuss what medications Charlotte has been on in the past and is currently on and which ones have helped her. Some specific stories of obsessions and compulsions are also shared that give listeners a glimpse into Charlotte's world. This first part of a two part episode is a must listen.

]]> Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:46 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-24 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Charlotte - Part 1 In this episode Andy and Julie welcome their first international guest, Charlotte to the show. Charlotte is an English student living in France and openly shares her story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Charlotte talks about how at it's worst her OCD has made her clean her room for 3 or more hours a day and also how recently she made the very difficult decision to drop out of University in order to get a handle on her OCD. She talks about her family life and how two serious accidents involving her brothers caused her OCD to become much worse. She shares her past negative experiences with therapy and also her experience with a new therapist who she has really been able to connect with. They discuss what medications Charlotte has been on in the past and is currently on and which ones have helped her. Some specific stories of obsessions and compulsions are also shared that give listeners a glimpse into Charlotte's world. This first part of a two part episode is a must listen. no 42:40 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 28
This episode is the first part of Andy and Julie's question and answer show. In this episode they answer the first five questions that have been submitted by listeners. They talk about how you can know if what you are experiencing is OCD or not, and how you can know if you are morally ok despite the fact that you may experience intrusive thoughts. They answer a question about parenting and how a parent can help their child without being overbearing or controlling. They also talk about getting a dog and how this has affected Julie's OCD by either making it worse or making it better. The last question they deal with is that of how OCD affects their physical relationship. This is an issue that has not been talked about in the past because it is obviously one of a sensitive nature but they talk about it here in the hope that someone will be helped knowing they are not alone in this aspect of their OCD struggles either. So buckle up for the Sex episode, it's the one that's been along time in the making.

]]> Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:46 -0600 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-23 Andy & Julie Burnfield Question and Answer Show - Part 1 This episode is the first part of Andy and Julie's question and answer show. In this episode they answer the first five questions that have been submitted by listeners. They talk about how you can know if what you are experiencing is OCD or not, and how you can know if you are morally ok despite the fact that you may experience intrusive thoughts. They answer a question about parenting and how a parent can help their child without being overbearing or controlling. They also talk about getting a dog and how this has affected Julie's OCD by either making it worse or making it better. The last question they deal with is that of how OCD affects their physical relationship. This is an issue that has not been talked about in the past because it is obviously one of a sensitive nature but they talk about it here in the hope that someone will be helped knowing they are not alone in this aspect of their OCD struggles either. So buckle up for the Sex episode, it's the one that's been along time in the making. no 1:06:48 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 27
This is part 2 of Bernie's interview with Julie and Andy. They talk about a number of issues this week including things that both Bernie and Julie have used as coping mechanisms for their OCD. Bernie shares about his friends and family, if having OCD has stigmatized him in anyway and if as result of this show he will share more about his struggles with those close to him. Bernie also shares the story of how having a serious surgery caused him to temporarily forget about his OCD. He talks about his tendency towards ROCD and how this has affected past relationships and those he may enter into in the future. They close the conversation by talking about how the show has helped Bernie and what other avenues he thinks Julie and Andy could explore in the future. This episode is yet another insightful view into the life of fellow OCD sufferer and includes a candid discussion on both the good and the bad things things that go along with that.

]]> Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:20 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-22 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Bernie - Part 2 This is part 2 of Bernie's interview with Julie and Andy. They talk about a number of issues this week including things that both Bernie and Julie have used as coping mechanisms for their OCD. Bernie shares about his friends and family, if having OCD has stigmatized him in anyway and if as result of this show he will share more about his struggles with those close to him. Bernie also shares the story of how having a serious surgery caused him to temporarily forget about his OCD. He talks about his tendency towards ROCD and how this has affected past relationships and those he may enter into in the future. They close the conversation by talking about how the show has helped Bernie and what other avenues he thinks Julie and Andy could explore in the future. This episode is yet another insightful view into the life of fellow OCD sufferer and includes a candid discussion on both the good and the bad things things that go along with that. no 1:06:48 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 26
In this part one of a two part episode Julie and Andy welcome their first male guest, Bernie to the show. He shares his story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. They talk about Bernie's recent experience with therapy after being told by a friend that they suspected he had OCD. This leads to a discussion of the different types of medication Bernie has been on over the past few years. They then talk about the physical and emotional side effects that such psychiatric medicine inevitably leads to and the struggles that come along with that. Bernie also shares about his childhood and how the history of mental illness in his family made growing up difficult. He talks specifically about the form his obsession and compulsions take and about how the intensity of these compulsions increase during stressful times in his life. This is a frank and open discussion of some of the yet untouched issues of OCD in regards to this show. Bernie has many insightful things to share from his daily struggles with OCD.

]]> Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:10 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-21 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Bernie - Part 1 In this part one of a two part episode Julie and Andy welcome their first male guest, Bernie to the show. He shares his story of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. They talk about Bernie's recent experience with therapy after being told by a friend that they suspected he had OCD. This leads to a discussion of the different types of medication Bernie has been on over the past few years. They then talk about the physical and emotional side effects that such psychiatric medicine inevitably leads to and the struggles that come along with that. Bernie also shares about his childhood and how the history of mental illness in his family made growing up difficult. He talks specifically about the form his obsession and compulsions take and about how the intensity of these compulsions increase during stressful times in his life. This is a frank and open discussion of some of the yet untouched issues of OCD in regards to this show. Bernie has many insightful things to share from his daily struggles with OCD. no 1:04:28 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 25
In this episode Julie and Andy continue their discussion with Holly Maddy (hollymaddy.com), a therapist who specializes in treating OCD. Their conversation centers around how to find a therapist and how to determine if a particular therapist is right for you. Julie and Holly discuss the patient-therapist trust axis and why it is so important. They also discuss resources available to help people find a therapist in their area. They talk about why it is so difficult for some people to seek help and also what the benefits of therapy can be. The conversation wraps up with a discussion of how medication can aid in the recovery process and what the most misunderstood thing is about therapy and therapists in general. Holly gives some books suggestions and in closing offers her advice for listeners and for the podcast's future. This is the conclusion of a fascination conversation and view of OCD from the therapy side.

]]> Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:10 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-20 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Holly - Part 2 In this episode Julie and Andy continue their discussion with Holly Maddy (hollymaddy.com), a therapist who specializes in treating OCD. Their conversation centers around how to find a therapist and how to determine if a particular therapist is right for you. Julie and Holly discuss the patient-therapist trust axis and why it is so important. They also discuss resources available to help people find a therapist in their area. They talk about why it is so difficult for some people to seek help and also what the benefits of therapy can be. The conversation wraps up with a discussion of how medication can aid in the recovery process and what the most misunderstood thing is about therapy and therapists in general. Holly gives some books suggestions and in closing offers her advice for listeners and for the podcast's future. This is the conclusion of a fascination conversation and view of OCD from the therapy side. no 51:50 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 24
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome their third guest, Holly to the show. Holly is a therapist specializing in OCD and her insights and knowledge provide a different and insightful view of the disorder. In this first of a two part episode Julie and Holly talk about her background as a therapist and how she came to specialize in treating OCD. She talks about her practice and what types of therapy she uses as well as who the OCD sufferer is and what treatment involves as far as diagnosis, length, homework, and success. They continue their discussion to include how the family can contribute to treatment and how partners can help the sufferer. The podcast ends with a discussion of Holly's nature vs. nurture view on OCD and her advice to listeners who are thinking about starting therapy. This podcast is a must listen for people wanting to gain a professional's insight on OCD!

]]> Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:42 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-19 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Holly - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome their third guest, Holly to the show. Holly is a therapist specializing in OCD and her insights and knowledge provide a different and insightful view of the disorder. In this first of a two part episode Julie and Holly talk about her background as a therapist and how she came to specialize in treating OCD. She talks about her practice and what types of therapy she uses as well as who the OCD sufferer is and what treatment involves as far as diagnosis, length, homework, and success. They continue their discussion to include how the family can contribute to treatment and how partners can help the sufferer. The podcast ends with a discussion of Holly's nature vs. nurture view on OCD and her advice to listeners who are thinking about starting therapy. This podcast is a must listen for people wanting to gain a professional's insight on OCD! no 54:42 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 23
In this episode Andy and Julie continue their discussion of Relationship OCD in the second of a two part show. They focus on the partner of the sufferer in this conversation and talk about how ROCD affects them specifically. They also discuss whether there is something that makes ROCD worse or triggers an episode and how you may be able to recognize the signs. Other points of discussion include if a person regrets what happens after they have confronted a partner and why after numerous confrontations a partner would choose to stay with someone with ROCD. They continue the episode by talking about what a person can do to help the sufferer and what steps could possibly be taken if it comes to the point of getting a partner help for their struggles. Julie shares how ROCD has affected her life and also her life with Andy since they met and started dating. She finishes by giving her thoughts out the overall outlook for someone struggling with ROCD. Personal stories and new insights makes this another interesting episode.

]]> Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:10 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-18 Andy & Julie Burnfield ROCD - Relationship OCD - Part 2 Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 23 In this episode Andy and Julie continue their discussion of Relationship OCD in the second of a two part show. They focus on the partner of the sufferer in this conversation and talk about how ROCD affects them specifically. They also discuss whether there is something that makes ROCD worse or triggers an episode and how you may be able to recognize the signs. Other points of discussion include if a person regrets what happens after they have confronted a partner and why after numerous confrontations a partner would choose to stay with someone with ROCD. They continue the episode by talking about what a person can do to help the sufferer and what steps could possibly be taken if it comes to the point of getting a partner help for their struggles. Julie shares how ROCD has affected her life and also her life with Andy since they met and started dating. She finishes by giving her thoughts out the overall outlook for someone struggling with ROCD. Personal stories and new insights makes this another interesting episode. no 58:00 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 22
In this episode Julie and Andy discuss the little known subject of a facet of OCD called Relationship Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (ROCD). What this subject boils down to is the obsession over the justification to stay in a relationship. They talk about how ROCD relates to OCD, how a person can know if they have ROCD, and also some common symptoms. They also discuss how ROCD affects the current relationship the sufferer is in and how it affects their past relationships also. Julie is able to look back on her past and see many incidents that she never realized were ROCD until this episode. Andy is also able to give Julie some insight into how ROCD affected their dating relationship and makes some realizations of his own about Julie along the way. ROCD seems to be a common trait of people with OCD but does not get talked about a lot as there is not much information out there about it. This episode tries to shed light on yet another aspect of the life of someone with OCD.

]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:56 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-17 Andy & Julie Burnfield ROCD - Relationship OCD - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy discuss the little known subject of a facet of OCD called Relationship Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (ROCD). What this subject boils down to is the obsession over the justification to stay in a relationship. They talk about how ROCD relates to OCD, how a person can know if they have ROCD, and also some common symptoms. They also discuss how ROCD affects the current relationship the sufferer is in and how it affects their past relationships also. Julie is able to look back on her past and see many incidents that she never realized were ROCD until this episode. Andy is also able to give Julie some insight into how ROCD affected their dating relationship and makes some realizations of his own about Julie along the way. ROCD seems to be a common trait of people with OCD but does not get talked about a lot as there is not much information out there about it. This episode tries to shed light on yet another aspect of the life of someone with OCD. no 52:36 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 21
In this episode Julie and Andy continue their conversation from last week with their guest Traci. They discuss Traci's theory on the origin of her OCD and whether or not it is due to brain chemistry, her environment and upbringing, or a combination of the two. Traci opens up about her relationship with her husband and what it is like for him dealing with her OCD on a daily basis. She talks about her children and how they are affected by her panic episodes and subsequent profuse apologies. Finally, they wrap up their conversation by talking about what kind of future Traci sees for herself in relation to her OCD. Traci gives some good advice to listeners and shares her story of how she found the podcast and what benefit she has gained from it. This is the ending of a story of a very brave soul who has prevailed despite her circumstances and continues to fight the good fight against her OCD.

]]> Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:40 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-16 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Traci - Part 2 In this episode Julie and Andy continue their conversation from last week with their guest Traci. They discuss Traci's theory on the origin of her OCD and whether or not it is due to brain chemistry, her environment and upbringing, or a combination of the two. Traci opens up about her relationship with her husband and what it is like for him dealing with her OCD on a daily basis. She talks about her children and how they are affected by her panic episodes and subsequent profuse apologies. Finally, they wrap up their conversation by talking about what kind of future Traci sees for herself in relation to her OCD. Traci gives some good advice to listeners and shares her story of how she found the podcast and what benefit she has gained from it. This is the ending of a story of a very brave soul who has prevailed despite her circumstances and continues to fight the good fight against her OCD. no 54:32 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 20
In this episode Andy and Julie welcome their second guest to the show, Traci. They talk about Traci's history of OCD and the issues and events that shaped her life as a child. She shares a very pivotal event in her life that forced her into therapy for the first time even though not for the correct diagnosis. Traci discusses her home life and how that affected her OCD. She shares her journey through therapists and through misdiagnosis after misdiagnosis until she finally realized that what she had been struggling with her whole life was OCD. They discuss her current positive therapy experience and also the various medications she has been on over the years that have or have not helped. Julie and Traci's OCD are very similar and what follows is a lively discussion of two different people brought together by the common thread of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

]]> Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:40 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-15 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Traci - Part 1 In this episode Andy and Julie welcome their second guest to the show, Traci. They talk about Traci's history of OCD and the issues and events that shaped her life as a child. She shares a very pivotal event in her life that forced her into therapy for the first time even though not for the correct diagnosis. Traci discusses her home life and how that affected her OCD. She shares her journey through therapists and through misdiagnosis after misdiagnosis until she finally realized that what she had been struggling with her whole life was OCD. They discuss her current positive therapy experience and also the various medications she has been on over the years that have or have not helped. Julie and Traci's OCD are very similar and what follows is a lively discussion of two different people brought together by the common thread of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. no 55:18 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 19
In this episode Julie and Andy continue their interview with Shannon about her life with OCD. They pick up where they left off in the first show talking about Shannon's history of therapy and how she has found a lot of help through various professionals. Shannon talks specifically about her obsessions of harming others and Julie is able to share her struggles with the same obsessions. They talk about books that have helped them over the years and also discuss whether Shannon's OCD is a result of nature, nurture or a combination. Shannon tells what her relationship is like with her husband, her kids and also where she sees her life 5-10 years from now in relation to her OCD. Julie ends the show with getting feedback from Shannon about the podcast. Shannon's story is one of struggle but ultimately one of success and is an inspiration to us all.

]]> Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:40 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-14 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Shannon - Part 2 In this episode Julie and Andy continue their interview with Shannon about her life with OCD. They pick up where they left off in the first show talking about Shannon's history of therapy and how she has found a lot of help through various professionals. Shannon talks specifically about her obsessions of harming others and Julie is able to share her struggles with the same obsessions. They talk about books that have helped them over the years and also discuss whether Shannon's OCD is a result of nature, nurture or a combination. Shannon tells what her relationship is like with her husband, her kids and also where she sees her life 5-10 years from now in relation to her OCD. Julie ends the show with getting feedback from Shannon about the podcast. Shannon's story is one of struggle but ultimately one of success and is an inspiration to us all. no 53:07 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 18
In this episode Julie and Andy welcome their first guest to the the show. Shannon shares her story of living with OCD and how it has affected her and her family. We get a history of Shannon's life starting from early childhood all the way up to her current life as a wife and mother of two children. Shannon talks about her obsessions and compulsions and how her OCD is mainly "Pure O." She chronicles her history of different medications and of different therapists and types of therapy. What follows is a frank discussion of some of the more difficult aspects to talk about when it comes to OCD. Shannon's openness and bravery to share her story not only impact Julie and Andy directly but hopefully many more people who listen to the show. This is part one of a two part interview with Shannon.

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2009 00:00:40 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-13 Andy & Julie Burnfield Interview with Shannon - Part 1 In this episode Julie and Andy welcome their first guest to the the show. Shannon shares her story of living with OCD and how it has affected her and her family. We get a history of Shannon's life starting from early childhood all the way up to her current life as a wife and mother of two children. Shannon talks about her obsessions and compulsions and how her OCD is mainly "Pure O." She chronicles her history of different medications and of different therapists and types of therapy. What follows is a frank discussion of some of the more difficult aspects to talk about when it comes to OCD. Shannon's openness and bravery to share her story not only impact Julie and Andy directly but hopefully many more people who listen to the show. This is part one of a two part interview with Shannon. no 53:07 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 17
In this episode Andy and Julie talk about a new development in their lives. Julie talks about how this new development has impacted her OCD and what she has and has not been able to control in regards to her obsessions and compulsions. They also discuss the future of the show and where they would like to see it go from this point on. They discuss opening up the show to listeners so other people can share their stories and talk about what course their individual OCD has taken. They encourage listeners to email new topics of discussion and also welcome anyone who would like to be a guest on the show. This brief episode is an overview of the future and what they feel it holds for their podcast.

]]> Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:26 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-12 Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's Pregnant! Now What! In this episode Andy and Julie talk about a new development in their lives. Julie talks about how this new development has impacted her OCD and what she has and has not been able to control in regards to her obsessions and compulsions. They also discuss the future of the show and where they would like to see it go from this point on. They discuss opening up the show to listeners so other people can share their stories and talk about what course their individual OCD has taken. They encourage listeners to email new topics of discussion and also welcome anyone who would like to be a guest on the show. This brief episode is an overview of the future and what they feel it holds for their podcast. no 29:20 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 16
In this episode Julie and Andy continue their discussion on Self-mutilation and specifically cutting. Julie talks more about her cycles of attachment throughout her life and the people that she bonded with in one way or another. The characteristics of the cutter is explored and talked about in relation to how Julie exhibits these characteristics in one way or another. The end the show on the topic of nature vs. nurture and whether cutting emerges as a result of a person's predisposition to mental illness or whether it results solely from a person's environment and upbringing. Cutters feel alone. People with OCD feel alone and ultimately this show's goal is to make each of us realize that we don't have to be alone.

]]> Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:00:57 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-11 Andy & Julie Burnfield Self-Mutilation - Part 2 Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 16 In this episode Julie and Andy continue their discussion on Self-mutilation and specifically cutting. Julie talks more about her cycles of attachment throughout her life and the people that she bonded with in one way or another. The characteristics of the cutter is explored and talked about in relation to how Julie exhibits these characteristics in one way or another. The end the show on the topic of nature vs. nurture and whether cutting emerges as a result of a person's predisposition to mental illness or whether it results solely from a person's environment and upbringing. Cutters feel alone. People with OCD feel alone and ultimately this show's goal is to make each of us realize that we don't have to be alone. no 34:56 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 15
In this episode Andy and Julie address the topic of Self-Mutilation or cutting. We learn about Julie's struggle with his during her teenagers years and early adulthood. It is an emotional episode but a topic that needs to be discussed nonetheless. Just like OCD, cutting can become a lonely and isolating disorder and the goal again is to make people feel that they are not alone, that someone understands their struggles. Julie talks about her personal history with cutting and also about the characteristics of self-mutilation in general. They also postulate as to whether cutting is related in anyway to OCD and if perhaps one can "spring" from another and become just another way of coping with the obsessions going on inside a sufferer's head. Julie addresses why people injure themselves, what their motives are behind such a behavior and whether or not that person is trying to take their own life. The discussion is open and honest but at times graphic as well, something necessary to convey the desperate nature of this issue.

]]> Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:09 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-10 Andy & Julie Burnfield Self-Mutilation - Part 1 In this episode Andy and Julie address the topic of Self-Mutilation or cutting. We learn about Julie's struggle with his during her teenagers years and early adulthood. It is an emotional episode but a topic that needs to be discussed nonetheless. Just like OCD, cutting can become a lonely and isolating disorder and the goal again is to make people feel that they are not alone, that someone understands their struggles. Julie talks about her personal history with cutting and also about the characteristics of self-mutilation in general. They also postulate as to whether cutting is related in anyway to OCD and if perhaps one can "spring" from another and become just another way of coping with the obsessions going on inside a sufferer's head. Julie addresses why people injure themselves, what their motives are behind such a behavior and whether or not that person is trying to take their own life. The discussion is open and honest but at times graphic as well, something necessary to convey the desperate nature of this issue. no 52:50 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 14
This episode is the second part of our discussion on how Andy is affected by Julie's OCD. Julie continues to ask Andy questions and pick his brain on what it's like to be a "co-sufferer" living with someone with OCD. The episode covers the area of what day to day life is like for Andy and how he handles Julie's compulsions and what worries him most about her OCD. Andy offers advice for listeners that may live or know someone with these same struggles and shares tips that he has learned over the years of living with Julie. They also discuss Andy's opinions on medication and therapy and whether there are other avenues he thinks Julie should pursue in order to help alleviate her OCD. The partner of someone with OCD is a vital person in the life of the sufferer and so that is why these two shows have been devoted to delving inside Andy's mind. What follows is sure to be intriguing not only for listeners but also for Julie and she finds out things she never knew before.

]]> Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:09 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-9 Andy & Julie Burnfield Turn the tables on Andy - The "Co-Sufferer" - Part 2 Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 14 This episode is the second part of our discussion on how Andy is affected by Julie's OCD. Julie continues to ask Andy questions and pick his brain on what it's like to be a "co-sufferer" living with someone with OCD. The episode covers the area of what day to day life is like for Andy and how he handles Julie's compulsions and what worries him most about her OCD. Andy offers advice for listeners that may live or know someone with these same struggles and shares tips that he has learned over the years of living with Julie. They also discuss Andy's opinions on medication and therapy and whether there are other avenues he thinks Julie should pursue in order to help alleviate her OCD. The partner of someone with OCD is a vital person in the life of the sufferer and so that is why these two shows have been devoted to delving inside Andy's mind. What follows is sure to be intriguing not only for listeners but also for Julie and she finds out things she never knew before. no 52:50 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 13
In this episode we turn the tables so to speak and let Julie ask the questions while Andy is the one answering them. The hope for this episode is that we can give some insight into the thoughts and struggles of the "co-sufferer" living with someone who has OCD. This person may be a spouse, a partner, a parent or even a child or friend. Whatever the relationship it is important to view things from their perspective as they are also having to adjust to life in different ways when sharing that life with someone with OCD. We start with the topic of dating and marriage and discuss how that has affected Julie and Andy's life from when they first met to after they got married. The topic of the future and family is also included in this episode. Are there worries that Andy has about Julie's future or about children and how that will affect her OCD? This episode looks at OCD from a very different perspective-a very important perspective.

]]> Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:09 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-8 Andy & Julie Burnfield Turn the tables on Andy - The "Co-Sufferer" - Part 1 Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 13 In this episode we turn the tables so to speak and let Julie ask the questions while Andy is the one answering them. The hope for this episode is that we can give some insight into the thoughts and struggles of the "co-sufferer" living with someone who has OCD. This person may be a spouse, a partner, a parent or even a child or friend. Whatever the relationship it is important to view things from their perspective as they are also having to adjust to life in different ways when sharing that life with someone with OCD. We start with the topic of dating and marriage and discuss how that has affected Julie and Andy's life from when they first met to after they got married. The topic of the future and family is also included in this episode. Are there worries that Andy has about Julie's future or about children and how that will affect her OCD? This episode looks at OCD from a very different perspective-a very important perspective. no 44:35 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 12
This episode of our podcast deals with everything having to do with sleep. We discuss three basic areas of sleep where Julie has difficulties. The first topic is that of general sleep disturbances and routines related to Julie's OCD. We talk about Julie's night time routines that must be accomplished in order to go to bed. The second is that of "Night Terrors" and what link, if any, this has to anxiety disorders and OCD in particular. We talk about what the difference is between a night terror and a nightmare. The last topic is that of a strange phenomenon known as "sleep paralysis" and what happens when Julie is affected by this. We discuss whether or not it has to do with OCD or whether it is simply a separate and individual occurrence. To close the episode we get an overall view of how the issue of OCD relates to Julie's overactive brain and her nightly occurrences of vivid and often disturbing dreams. Sleep is yet another aspect of Julie's life that is severely impacted by OCD as you will hear in this episode.

]]> Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:53 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-7 Andy & Julie Burnfield Night Terrors and Sleep Paralysis This episode of our podcast deals with everything having to do with sleep. We discuss three basic areas of sleep where Julie has difficulties. The first topic is that of general sleep disturbances and routines related to Julie's OCD. We talk about Julie's night time routines that must be accomplished in order to go to bed. The second is that of "Night Terrors" and what link, if any, this has to anxiety disorders and OCD in particular. We talk about what the difference is between a night terror and a nightmare. The last topic is that of a strange phenomenon known as "sleep paralysis" and what happens when Julie is affected by this. We discuss whether or not it has to do with OCD or whether it is simply a separate and individual occurrence. To close the episode we get an overall view of how the issue of OCD relates to Julie's overactive brain and her nightly occurrences of vivid and often disturbing dreams. Sleep is yet another aspect of Julie's life that is severely impacted by OCD as you will hear in this episode. no 1:00:30 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 11
In this episode we continue the conversation with Julie about her OCD and specifically her fear of "dirt" and germs. We discuss what it is like for Julie to travel and to stay in hotels and how these events send her OCD into overdrive. Traveling and hotel bring about anxiety for Julie and along with that, the highest level of obsessions and compulsions to the point where she is severely impeded in going about her daily routine. The subject of organization and neatness in all other areas of Julie's life is also covered and a humorous conversation is had about the the Burnfield's house and how "clean" means one thing to Julie while it means something completely different to the rest of the world. Julie's standards and rules of cleanliness are also covered in this episode in relation to her levels of overall anxiety.

]]> Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:53 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-6 Andy & Julie Burnfield Cleanliness In this episode we continue the conversation with Julie about her OCD and specifically her fear of "dirt" and germs. We discuss what it is like for Julie to travel and to stay in hotels and how these events send her OCD into overdrive. Traveling and hotel bring about anxiety for Julie and along with that, the highest level of obsessions and compulsions to the point where she is severely impeded in going about her daily routine. The subject of organization and neatness in all other areas of Julie's life is also covered and a humorous conversation is had about the the Burnfield's house and how "clean" means one thing to Julie while it means something completely different to the rest of the world. Julie's standards and rules of cleanliness are also covered in this episode in relation to her levels of overall anxiety. no 45:48 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 10
In this episode we get into the specifics of some of the daily struggles Julie faces living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We discuss Julie's germaphobia and how this affects her daily habits. This conversation is filled with laughter and humor because we get into the nitty-gritty details of Julie's bathroom routine! Warning: some of this material may get a little too specific for some people but in order to gain a real glimpse into the habits of a person with OCD we delve right into the subject in all it's glory!! Julie details her struggles with "levels of cleanliness" also in relation to the difference between public restrooms, other people's houses and her own house. This is a candid look at how OCD severely delays Julie's daily schedule and how Andy reacts to his wife's issues with germs.

]]> Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:37 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-5 Andy & Julie Burnfield The Bathroom Episode In this episode we get into the specifics of some of the daily struggles Julie faces living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We discuss Julie's germaphobia and how this affects her daily habits. This conversation is filled with laughter and humor because we get into the nitty-gritty details of Julie's bathroom routine! Warning: some of this material may get a little too specific for some people but in order to gain a real glimpse into the habits of a person with OCD we delve right into the subject in all it's glory!! Julie details her struggles with "levels of cleanliness" also in relation to the difference between public restrooms, other people's houses and her own house. This is a candid look at how OCD severely delays Julie's daily schedule and how Andy reacts to his wife's issues with germs. no 31:45 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Episode 9
This is the episode where we finally get back to the Nature versus nurture topic that was the reason for hearing all of Julie's back story. We discuss whether Julie believes her OCD is a result of her genes (nature), whether it is a result of her environment (nurture), or whether it is some combination of the two. We talk about factors that contribute to the development of OCD and whether or not a person can "relearn" behaviors started in childhood and in essence "rework your own brain patterns and functioning." Julie also elaborates on how one child can differ from another child raised in the same home based on brain functioning and levels of serotonin. This episode is an interesting exploration of how a person with OCD attributes their disorder to not just one single factor but perhaps a combination of two factors. Nature vs. Nurture may be the topic that there is no definite answer to.

]]> Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:53 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-4 Andy & Julie Burnfield Nature vs. Nurture This is the episode where we finally get back to the Nature versus nurture topic that was the reason for hearing all of Julie's back story. We discuss whether Julie believes her OCD is a result of her genes (nature), whether it is a result of her environment (nurture), or whether it is some combination of the two. We talk about factors that contribute to the development of OCD and whether or not a person can "relearn" behaviors started in childhood and in essence "rework your own brain patterns and functioning." Julie also elaborates on how one child can differ from another child raised in the same home based on brain functioning and levels of serotonin. This episode is an interesting exploration of how a person with OCD attributes their disorder to not just one single factor but perhaps a combination of two factors. Nature vs. Nurture may be the topic that there is no definite answer to. Obsessive Compulesive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 22:49 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Episode 8
In this episode we finish up Julie's back story. We discuss engagement and how the stress of graduation, in-laws, family, and wedding planning all made for some interesting experienced for Julie. We wrap up with the first few years of marriage and how OCD created added tension and communication issues when we were first starting out as newly-weds. Listen as we both share our different remembrances of the events that shaped our relationship over the past decade and some ways we have learned to communicate and understand each other despite of and because of Julie's OCD. All-in-all its an entertaining show, there is even a bit of laughter towards the end.

]]> Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:26 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-3 Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's History - Marriage and Beyond - Part 2 In this episode we finish up Julie's back story. We discuss engagement and how the stress of graduation, in-laws, family, and wedding planning all made for some interesting experienced for Julie. We wrap up with the first few years of marriage and how OCD created added tension and communication issues when we were first starting out as newly-weds. Listen as we both share our different remembrances of the events that shaped our relationship over the past decade and some ways we have learned to communicate and understand each other despite of and because of Julie's OCD. All-in-all its an entertaining show, there is even a bit of laughter towards the end. Obsessive Compulesive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 49:39 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Episode 7
In this episode we finish up Julie's back story. We discuss engagement and how the stress of graduation, in-laws, family, and wedding planning all made for some interesting experienced for Julie. We wrap up with the first few years of marriage and how OCD created added tension and communication issues when we were first starting out as newly-weds. Listen as we both share our different remembrances of the events that shaped our relationship over the past decade and some ways we have learned to communicate and understand each other despite of and because of Julie's OCD. All-in-all its an entertaining show, there is even a bit of laughter towards the end.

]]> Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:17 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-2 Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's History - Marriage and Beyond - Part 1 In this episode we finish up Julie's back story. We discuss engagement and how the stress of graduation, in-laws, family, and wedding planning all made for some interesting experienced for Julie. We wrap up with the first few years of marriage and how OCD created added tension and communication issues when we were first starting out as newly-weds. Listen as we both share our different remembrances of the events that shaped our relationship over the past decade and some ways we have learned to communicate and understand each other despite of and because of Julie's OCD. All-in-all its an entertaining show, there is even a bit of laughter towards the end. Obsessive Compulesive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 38:58 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Episode 6
In this episode we continue talking about Julie's life story and delve into her college years and how having OCD affected not only her experience as a student and roommate but also how it effected her choice of a major to study. We discover that it was during these college years that Julie first began to really realize what OCD was and that it wasn't just a personality quirk or something that could be switched on and off at her will. We find out if this realization made things easier or harder for Julie. We also talk about how Julie was able to open up for the first time ever and actually talk to someone about her struggles.

]]> Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:03 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-1 Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's History - College and the Discovery In this episode we continue talking about Julie's life story and delve into her college years and how having OCD affected not only her experience as a student and roommate but also how it effected her choice of a major to study. We discover that it was during these college years that Julie first began to really realize what OCD was and that it wasn't just a personality quirk or something that could be switched on and off at her will. We find out if this realization made things easier or harder for Julie. We also talk about how Julie was able to open up for the first time ever and actually talk to someone about her struggles. Obsessive Compulesive Disorder, OCD, Mental, andyburnfield, julieburnfield, Julie, Andy no 31:10 http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/ Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 5
In this episode, we continue the journey of exploring Julie's history. Julie will continue to tell her story, beginning with her sophomore year of high school spent in Texas. She will explain the changes and growth that shaped her in dealing with living within a different culture. Relive the hard times she went through trying to assimilate back into her old group of friends upon returning to Ireland the following year. Again much of this episode does not deal directly with obsessive compulsive disorder, but will give history and background to future conversations about Julie's disorder.

]]> Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:32 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episod-1 Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's History - High School Years In this episode, we continue the journey of exploring Julie's history. Julie will continue to tell her story, beginning with her sophomore year of high school spent in Texas. She will explain the changes and growth that shaped her in dealing with living within a different culture. Relive the hard times she went through trying to assimilate back into her old group of friends upon returning to Ireland the following year. Again much of this episode does not deal directly with obsessive compulsive disorder, but will give history and background to future conversations about Julie's disorder. Obsessive Compulesive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 31:24 http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/2009/5/18/living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-4.html Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 4
In this episode, we begin the journey of exploring Julie's history so that we can see where the origins of her obsessive compulsive disorder lie. Julie will tell her story, beginning with her earliest memories through the end of middle school. She will talk about adoption, school, friends, and most of all family. Reliving some good and bad memories, as she retells the events that shaped childhood. Much of this episode does not deal directly with OCD but instead paints a picture of Julie's past so that there is background for the discussions in future episodes. This was a difficult episode to record for many reasons. Some of the things discussed are painful and difficult to revisit.

]]> Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:40 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode Andy & Julie Burnfield Julie's History - The Early Years In this episode, we begin the journey of exploring Julie's history so that we can see where the origins of her obsessive compulsive disorder lie. Julie will tell her story, beginning with her earliest memories through the end of middle school. She will talk about adoption, school, friends, and most of all family. Reliving some good and bad memories, as she retells the events that shaped childhood. Much of this episode does not deal directly with OCD but instead paints a picture of Julie's past so that there is background for the discussions in future episodes. This was a difficult episode to record for many reasons. Some of the things discussed are painful and difficult to revisit. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 26:40 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/2009/5/11/living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-3.html Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 3
In this episode we continue the explanation of what it is like to live as someone with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Julie further explains what is is like to have a mind that she "can n0t control." She offers some analogies and descriptions of what an "out of control" mind feels like. And how she deals with this coming off her current medication. Julie also describes, in greater detail, what types of thoughts she deals with and how disturbing OCD can be when "bad" thoughts get stuck in her mind. She describes how much of the thoughts and compulsions she has are uncontrollable and how acting on these compulsions not only does not help the OCD but makes it worse, creating a vicious cycle.

]]> Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:21 -0500 living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episod Andy & Julie Burnfield What is OCD? In this episode we continue the explanation of what it is like to live as someone with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Julie further explains what is is like to have a mind that she "can not control." She offers some analogies and descriptions of what an "out of control" mind feels like. And how she deals with this coming off her current medication. Julie also describes, in greater detail, what types of thoughts she deals with and how disturbing OCD can be when "bad" thoughts get stuck in her mind. She describes how much of the thoughts and compulsions she has are uncontrollable and how acting on these compulsions not only does not help the OCD but makes it worse, creating a vicious cycle. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OCD, Mental, andyburnfield, julieburnfield no 23:12 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/2009/5/4/living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-2.html Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 2
In this episode we begin to look at Julie's childhood. This show covers the following questions:
When did you first become aware you had OCD?
What was different about you as a young child as a result of this disorder?
When you were younger did you realize something was different with the way your mind worked?
When you think back, what do you see now that affected your childhood that you didn't understand to be the disorder at the time?
How did your OCD affect your family?
Did your parents understand what you were dealing with?

]]> Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:37 -0500 331104:3741779:3823321 Andy & Julie Burnfield When did you first notice? In this episode we begin to look at Julie's childhood. This show covers the following questions: When did you first become aware you had OCD? What was different about you as a young child as a result of this disorder? When you were younger did you realize something was different with the way your mind worked? When you think back, what do you see now that affected your childhood that you didn't understand to be the disorder at the time? How did your OCD affect your family? Did your parents understand what you were dealing with? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Mental no 23:59 Andy & Julie Burnfield http://www.coldflyer.com/living-with-ocd/2009/4/27/living-with-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-episode-1.html Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Episode 1
This is episode 1 of the podcast "Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder". This is an interview and discussion between myself (Andy Burnfield) and my wife (Julie Burnfield) about the struggles of living with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). In this episode are introductions to Julie and I and a brief overview of what OCD is, how it affects Julie, and where we want the show to go in the future. The intention of this show is to offer a voice for all those struggling out there with this disorder so you will know you are not alone. We will attempt to share a small part of our struggles. So subscribe to the show, listen in, and hopefully we can share some hope through community.

]]> Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:54 -0500 331104:3741779:3818461 Andy & Julie Burnfield The Introduction This is episode 1 of the podcast "Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder". This is an interview and discussion between myself (Andy Burnfield) and my wife (Julie Burnfield) about the struggles of living with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). In this episode are introductions to Julie and I and a brief overview of what OCD is, how it affects Julie, and where we want the show to go in the future. The intention of this show is to offer a voice for all those struggling out there with this disorder so you will know you are not alone. We will attempt to share a small part of our struggles. So subscribe to the show, listen in, and hopefully we can share some hope through community. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OCD, Mental no 19:09 Andy & Julie Burnfield