From Nathan Peterson, LCSW:
Are the constant thoughts getting to you lately? You're not alone. But there is hope! Those recurring, incessant thoughts are probably one of the biggest compulsions that I see when treating people living with OCD and anxiety. Let me give you some tips that may help you feel a little better: ⋙ Write it down! Every time you feel you are stuck in your thoughts, take out a journal or notepad and just start writing. Get those thoughts out of your head and onto paper. ⋙ Choose a response! Take some time to think of a response to these thoughts that you could use. A good example would be “maybe, maybe not”. Keep it uncertain. The next time you have a distressing thought, try and think of this mantra as the response to that thought. It can help avoid that feeling of needing to figure something out.
⋙ Get physical! If you feel really stuck, try rolling your arms until you can't do it anymore. I know it sounds strange, but moving your body can help kick your brain out of the moment and into a better feeling of calm. Then you can move on with your day. I am so impressed with the commitment you have in learning to treat your own OCD. By learning how to handle your repetitive thoughts, you'll be making a massive leap toward your recovery.
I have so much faith in you and know that you can achieve the success that you want! You can do this. Wishing you the best as always, -Nathan Peterson, LCSW
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