The Quiet Ones

I'm going to give a perspective that may be somewhat controversial here, but it's what I've found to be true based on my own experience, and my basic understanding of the science of the brain. Feel free to take it if it resonates with you, and leave it if not. I personally think that this differentiation between "OCD thoughts" and "your thoughts" is a bit of a misunderstanding, and causes confusion in the long run. OCD isn't the thoughts themselves, it's the reaction to the thoughts. All thoughts are our "own thoughts" in the sense that they are generated by the same parts of the brain. The brain produces thousands and thousands of thoughts every day, a vast majority of which we don't even notice. The ones we are conscious of are the ones that are either relevant to our current situation, or that illicit a strong reaction in us. The more we negatively react to a thought, the more intrusive it becomes due to the Ironic Process. I think this is an important distinction, because when we try to separate thoughts into "OCD thoughts" vs "real thoughts," we're giving them more power than they really have. We're basically saying that if a thought doesn't "come from OCD," then it must be true or really important, and if it does, then it must be false. But that's simply not true. All thoughts are just thoughts. They are nothing but the brain spitting out information based on input. The don't inherently "mean" anything about us, or our true desires. I believe this way of looking at it helps you disengage from the thoughts. You don't have to analyze them to figure out if they're "real" or not, because there's no need. Again, OCD isn't the thoughts themselves, it's the compulsive reactions. It's the strong desire to get rid of unwanted thoughts in order to avoid anxiety. Everyone experiences intrusive thoughts now and then. The difference is that people without OCD just kind of shrug them off or don't pay them much mind, while those with OCD make it their life's mission to get rid of them or figure out what they mean, which only makes things worse. Sorry for the long reply, but I hope it helps shift your perspective a bit!

I feel similarly, the thoughts that are less obvious. That cause a little discomfort but not full distress. All of those, they leave me stuck in a loop for hours. I was told that any thought that makes you doubt yourself, treat it as OCD and don’t entertain it. I know it’s easier to say than to do. You’re not alone though 🩵

Hey K.at.lin. No, you’re not the only one. Thank you for sharing. I’m learning about these thoughts that aren’t my own. I always thought they were. The quiet ones are definitely the most harmful. They continue on almost unnoticed but tear me apart piece by piece, plant doubt and discontent, and lie like a mf. I’m sure you’ll see many people responding saying you are not alone, you’re certainly not. Glad you’re here and sharing what’s ailing you, it helps others to be stronger knowing there are others who deal with the same and some who learn ways to quiet the thoughts and will share that with you. This is a good place to be.