Square One? What To Do After An Emetophobia Setback | Recovery Isn't Linear | Episode 15

Have you ever had one bad day and thought:

"I've lost all my progress."

If so, you're not alone.

In this episode of Handle Emetophobia, Katie and Ally explore why recovery from emetophobia and OCD often feels like three steps forward and five steps back—and why that doesn't mean you've failed.

They share personal stories of setbacks, returning to old safety behaviors, getting sick, feeling discouraged, and questioning whether recovery is even working. Along the way, they discuss the difference between lapses and relapses, why shame makes recovery harder, and how to take the next step forward instead of giving up.

Topics include:

• Emetophobia setbacks
• OCD recovery and relapse
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
• Safety behaviors
• Acceptance and willingness
• Recovery burnout
• Shame and self-compassion
• Why progress isn't measured by how anxious you feel
• Practical ways to get back on track

Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or worried you've "gone backwards," this episode is a reminder that recovery isn't about perfection.

It's about getting back up—one step at a time.

Because falling isn't evidence that you're failing. Sometimes it's evidence that you're practicing.