Intrusive thoughts

Our amygdala (part of the brain that is more active in people with ocd) make us feel like that. It's almost like when we get a fright. It seems so real at the time. After a while our cortex processes the information and we're able to calm down. But, it's that cortex mechanism that we can't do properly in ocd thoughts.

I feel this. And at times it feels like there’s no other option than them being real.

I think the most important thing is for us to keep in mind they are bogus feelings. OCD is a liar. Over time, with ERP, they will dissipate.

I'm new to treatment and it is so comforting knowing that I am not the only one who feels like that. I haven't talked about my OCD for years and reading your struggle makes me sad and mad for us, but also that we are not alone.