Do the things that matter to you instead of focusing on your thoughts. Go to the movies, read, have dinner with your friends or family, go for a hike, exercise, play video games, catch up on chores—anything you need or want to do. Those activities matter, not random thoughts in your mind. Don’t fight against the thoughts, just let them be there like clouds in the sky and stay in the present moment while you enjoy the things you’re choosing to do.
I’m trying to but it feels like my reality is based on my thoughts. It’s scary and hard
Giving into your OCD—or any mental illness—starts to make you feel like you’re not in reality and you’re living in your mind. I had this issue for over a decade. Slowly but surely, you CAN get out from the hole that’s your mind. Every time you catch yourself/your mind drifting off, compassionately bring yourself back to the present. If you are about to do a compulsion, seek reassurance, etc. take a few deep breaths and do something more productive. If you are already doing a compulsion or seeking reassurance, stop immediately and do something else.
@Nica Thank you, you are inspiring and knowing that you have recovered gives me hope
needed this!
So maybe the title wasn't the best to to put it but when you guys start having obsessive thoughts how do you stop them before it turns into compulsions and anxiety?
Looking for inspiration
I’ve been thinking a lot about how OCD changes the way we see ourselves, but I recently realized that I am not my thoughts. Just because a thought pops up doesn’t mean it’s true or that it defines me. I’ve started learning how to see OCD for what it is—just a disorder trying to trick me—and I’ve become stronger in dealing with it. Has anyone else here had a similar realization? How do you handle these thoughts when they show up?
Share your thoughts so the Community can respond
