u/Wonderful_cherry123

Stuck in anxiety spiral about past mistakes — reassurance makes it worse

I'm 17. About 9-10 months ago, I overshared online with people I shouldn't have (location, school, personal stuff). I deleted everything and cut contact. For 9 months, I forgot about it completely.

Two weeks ago, anxiety hit hard. Now I keep catastrophizing: "What if they find me and harm my family?" Even though logically I know there's no real threat.

The problem: The more people reassure me, the worse it gets. I keep seeking "evidence" I'm in danger (checking Google, etc.). It's a loop.

My situation: Just got top grades, healthy, safe. But can't enjoy anything because of guilt and fear about this past mistake.

Question: Is this anxiety disorder/OCD? How do I stop the reassurance-seeking spiral? How do others break rumination cycles?

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u/Wonderful_cherry123 — 11 hours ago