How am I feeling today.

Remember that your intrusive thoughts are not you. The idea that you are feeling guilty about these thoughts show you that you're inward heart is good. Take reassurance that the fact that you feel guilty is a positive thing as it is showing you that you are not that individual. Always remember that.

The intrusive thoughts don't mean anything about you, so don't worry! Instead, the thoughts are more like a mirror to your values.

You’re not alone in feeling anxious and afraid of the future when intrusive thoughts are overwhelming. Progress can take time, but hope is important. Help is here at NOCD and we can assist you in finding outside help if needed too. Also here are some helpful resources: https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/terrified-to-ask-for-help-with-ocd/ https://www.treatmyocd.com/what-is-ocd/common-fears/im-always-afraid-i-left-my-door-unlocked-is-it-ocd https://www.treatmyocd.com/what-is-ocd/common-fears/do-intrusive-thoughts-during-climax-mean-anything

@AnonymousOCDSuffer, change brings a certain amount of anxiety. Just breath, keep hands open and not balled up, think positively and think blissfully. Thinking blissfully offers significant mental and physical health benefits, improving your ability to cope with stress, enhancing cognitive function, and extending your lifespan. It involves intentionally cultivating positive thoughts like gratitude and optimism to counteract the mind's natural tendency toward negativity. Mental benefits of blissful thinking Reduced stress and anxiety: A blissful mindset is correlated with lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, helping you manage challenges more effectively and reducing feelings of being overwhelmed. Improved coping skills: By fostering resilience, blissful thinking equips you with better problem-solving abilities and a more constructive approach to obstacles. Enhanced creativity: Studies show that a positive mood can activate the brain regions responsible for creative thinking, making it easier to generate new ideas and solutions. Boosted self-esteem: Redirecting your internal dialogue to be more positive and accepting can diminish self-criticism, leading to a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence. Greater happiness and life satisfaction: By actively focusing on the good in your life, you can improve your mood and overall sense of well-being, which is often called the "science of happiness". Physical benefits of blissful thinking Increased lifespan: Research has found that optimistic individuals tend to live longer than their pessimistic peers. A stronger immune system: Positive emotions have been shown to boost the immune system, making you more resistant to illnesses like the common cold and other infections. Better cardiovascular health: Optimism is linked to a lower risk of heart disease and may improve outcomes for those with cardiovascular issues. Healthier lifestyle choices: People with a positive outlook are more likely to engage in healthy habits such as exercising regularly, eating well, and socializing, all of which contribute to better health. How to cultivate a blissful mindset Blissful thinking is a skill that can be developed over time with consistent practice. Strategies for fostering this mindset include: Practice gratitude: Keep a journal of things you are thankful for, no matter how small. This helps shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. Use positive affirmations: Challenge and replace negative self-talk with positive, constructive statements to retrain your thoughts. Meditate and practice mindfulness: These practices can calm the mind, reduce stress, and help you become more aware of and present in your thoughts and emotions. Spend time in nature: Being outdoors can regulate emotions, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Volunteer and connect with others: Engaging in acts of kindness and strengthening social connections can increase your sense of purpose and create more happiness.