Listen to episode 252 of the OCD stories podcast, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I’ve been watching a lot of NOCD content and you’re like the face of NOCD. So… you have been treating OCD for 25 years, but you don’t have OCD, but you can think like somebody who has OCD. How do you not get worried about unsettling thoughts across probably a lot of subtypes if they’re there in your head? Are there really people who can think obsessive thoughts and just let them go? Do you really not have OCD? Are you sure?

Curious.... the news has been terribly distressing for me and has stirred up OCD. Compulsive rumination and checking (news stories) are my go-to when OCD is triggered. Today, I purposely did not listen to my news podcast as I do every morning. I feel better-ish. Is this avoidance, or is this self care? Would continuing to listen to a podcast be exposure with response prevention applied to the compulsions that go with it? Thanks in advance!

Often I listen to podcasts or audiobooks. Sometimes fiction, sometimes about ocd or anxiety. I did this before i got so consumed with ocd again. But no i am doubting myself if i do this to distract myself. I do it while doing chores or when I put on my make-up for example. And I have to admit it helps me to get distracted from my thoughts. How do you know when you do it to distract your thoughts (as a compulsion) or just because you like it? When do you know it is helpfull or not?