Hey all. I’ve been struggling really badly with mental compulsions. The more I don’t want them to be there, the more they come. Mental checking/reviewing is the easiest way to describe it. Anyone have any tips on how to break the cycle?
I’ve heard that pushing away the thoughts can have the opposite effect. I’d acknowledge the thoughts and even let them sit with you for a while. Avoidance can cause anxiety to grow. Accept them as true (even if they aren’t) and you’ll begin to tolerate exposure to the thoughts, taking away their impact on you. I need to practice this as well, as I struggle with mental compulsions daily. Exposure can perhaps be the best way to break the cycle
@bde Exactly 👍🏻
Sorry you’re going through this. From time to time I catch myself going down the OCD ruminating rabbit holes. When I do, I give myself some compassion and accept the uncertainty (maybe, maybe not) - knowing that we live with it everyday. At that moment I may practice some mindfulness meditation. Choosing instead not to engage with or judge the OCD thoughts but watch them float on like clouds in the sky. These are some things I learned from ERP/NOCD therapist. It takes practice and you too can do it. Hope this helps!!!
How do you deal/ try to stop mental compulsions? Mine seem so involuntary it’s like I can’t stop myself from doing them
Can anyone share some advice on mental compulsions? I feel like I’m doing them before I notice I’m doing them (comparing, mental reviewing, reassurance, ruminating). I’m just starting ERP but I don’t know how I’m ever gonna get better if I keep doing them before I realize it ughhh help
Before I started therapy here, I had no idea I was performing mental compulsions 24/7 - it's the unseen battle. My mind felt like a constant war-zone, and I didn't know I was fueling the fire with these different compulsions. I think there are a lot of us who are still unfamiliar to what these types of compulsions may look like. Please share your experience so others can understand what to look out for! What are some mental compulsions you have identified in yourself?
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