- Date posted
- 1y
Whento use non engagement response and labelling
How do i know for what thoughts I should use non engagement and for what thoughts I should just label it and how do I know to which thoughts I should just let go?
How do i know for what thoughts I should use non engagement and for what thoughts I should just label it and how do I know to which thoughts I should just let go?
I just let them all go u less I’m needing to do critical thinking skills or brainstorm for work or a social event. It’s easier to do that than worry or fixate on which is which. And that can become a compulsion.
Non-engagement involves actively ignoring or not giving power to intrusive or distressing thoughts. You can practice this technique when you notice unhelpful or negative thoughts that you don't want to dwell on. Instead of engaging with these thoughts, try to redirect your attention to something positive or meaningful. Labeling involves acknowledging and accepting thoughts without judgment. This technique can be useful when you want to observe your thoughts without getting caught up in them. By labeling your thoughts as just thoughts, you create some distance and reduce their emotional impact. You can say to yourself, "I'm having the thought that..." or "I notice that I'm feeling..." Letting go involves recognizing that some thoughts are beyond your control and choosing not to attach significance to them. You can practice letting go when you encounter thoughts that are unproductive or unrealistic. Instead of trying to fight or change these thoughts, allow them to pass through your mind without getting caught up in them.
Everyone is different but I really struggle with labeling because my mind then kicks into argument mode and it’s harder to stop that compulsion to win the argument. Non engagement is my go to for that reason. I don’t know if that’s right or wrong but just my experience.
I’ve been getting stuck in my understanding of OCD lately. When I have intrusive thoughts, although I have OCD, I’m not supposed to label them as part of my condition? Instead I just say maybe/maybe not? It feels like it takes the wind out of my sails a bit in recovery? Like having cancer, but when I go to chemo, I’m supposed to say “maybe I have cancer, maybe I don’t.” Would anyone be able to speak to this and increase my insight and understanding? Thank you!
Please how can an intrusive thought be distinguished from our own thoughts ?
This is my first time posting on here, and it’s sorta a general question. I genuinely don’t know what to do with myself when my emotions take over from a thought. I know the basics of ERP work is to sit with your feelings, label it and let your thoughts pass, but even when I try to indulge in good distractions and avoid the thought, the feeling still lingers and I can’t help but vent to my partner about it. I can see it’s affecting him and our relationship. I’ve tried journaling, going out for a run, breathing exercises, labeling my thoughts and feelings, but I’m still left restless and unable to sleep because my frustrations and anxieties get too strong. I listened to a recent podcast on reassurance seeking, and she says that a study shows that venting has ZERO benefits. The host says she journals or records herself venting to avoid “bottling it up” and she acknowledges that others may also be going through their own things. I want to be able to ride the wave on my own and practice these tools in the process, but does anyone else have any advice that helps them? TLDR: My feelings get too strong and leaves me restless. I’m seeking advice on what other strategies I can use to cope with my emotions on my own, besides journaling, going for a run, breathing exercises and labeling my thoughts/feelings.
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