Does anyone struggle with thoughts of a uncomfortable or kinda disturbing memory image that just repeat over and over in your head even though you try not to think about it? And just in general does anyone have any tips on dealing with intrusive thoughts?

Exseii

171d ago

Same, I wish I knew what to do about the instrusive thoughts

Allegretto

171d ago

Yup. All the time. I think you’re supposed to not try to avoid it. Like just dive in like “okay OCD you wanna go there? Alright then let’s go!” But it’s so so so hard. I have a lot of memories (scary/traumatic or embarrassing/humiliating) that I don’t wanna relive but OCD will randomly pick one and just replay it. So hard to not avoid…

Nica

171d ago

Yes, but I let the thoughts and images be. They don’t bother me anymore.

lh2000

171d ago

Yes it’s so terrible. I literally sometimes wish that I could get amnesia or something just to not think about it.

Lms526

171d ago

The best thing you can do with intrusive thoughts is acknowledge its an OCD thought, then don't engage with it at all. Don't try to argue, reason, or disprove it. Don't ruminate about it. Just let your anxiety go crazy and don't do any compulsions. It will peak and start to go down. I have also found it helpful to say maybe maybe not. Other things I've found helpful is saying something like Shut Up OCD! Or No OCD!. Some experts recommend swearing at your OCD F You OCD. Just try different things and figure out what works for you. You can do this!