- User type
- Staff
- Date posted
- 4d
Impulsive or Intrusive?
There’s a big difference between impulsive and intrusive thoughts, and confusing the two can lead to misunderstandings and misinformation about what intrusive thoughts actually are. Impulsive thoughts typically reflect our real desires, even if their consequences may not always be ideal. Intrusive thoughts, on the other hand, are things that we absolutely do NOT want to come true. They’re typically the total opposite of our actual desires, and acting on these unwanted thoughts is often the worst fear of those struggling with them. While nearly everyone experiences intrusive thoughts, if they’re causing you intense distress and affecting your quality of life, or you find yourself trying to get rid of the distress by engaging in ritualistic behaviors or thought processes, you could be dealing with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). If you want a better understanding of how to deal with your intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Use the link in our bio to book a free call and get matched with an OCD specialist today.