Intrusive Thoughts vs. OCD
For most people, these thoughts are fleeting. They are acknowledged as "weird" and quickly dismissed. However, if these scenarios:
Become persistent and impossible to ignore,
Contradict your core values or identity (e.g., fears of harming loved ones),
Lead to compulsions (repetitive rituals like checking, counting, or cleaning to ease anxiety),
3 Techniques to Manage OCD and Anxiety
Psychology researchers, including those who live with OCD, suggest these practical steps to regain control:
Label the Thought: Instead of saying "I am a bad person," say "I am having an intrusive thought." This creates distance between you and the disorder.
Externalize OCD: Visualize OCD as a separate entity or character. Drawing it can help you realize that "There is me, and there is OCD—we are not the same."
Prioritize Self-Care: Stress is fuel for obsessions. Physical activity, proper rest, and nutrition strengthen your mental resilience against intrusive patterns.
The Bottom Line
OCD may not always "disappear" entirely, but it is highly manageable. Recognizing that these thoughts are not a reflection of your character is the first step toward living a functional, healthy life.
