Intrusive Thoughts: The Power of Your Mind

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted and distressing thoughts that can pop into your head at any time. They can be about anything, from violent images to disturbing memories. While everyone experiences intrusive thoughts from time to time, people with anxiety disorders or OCD often experience them more frequently and intensely.

What It Really Means to Have Intrusive Thoughts | Time

Intrusive thoughts can be very upsetting and can make you feel like you’re going crazy. However, it’s important to remember that intrusive thoughts are not a sign of mental illness. They are simply a symptom of anxiety or OCD.

There are a number of things you can do to cope with intrusive thoughts. One of the most important things is to accept them. Trying to suppress or ignore intrusive thoughts will only make them worse. Instead, allow yourself to have the thought and then let it go.

You can also challenge your intrusive thoughts. Ask yourself if the thought is really true and if there is any evidence to support it. For example, if you have an intrusive thought about harming yourself, ask yourself if you’ve ever actually tried to harm yourself in the past. Chances are, you haven’t.

Finally, you can distract yourself when you have an intrusive thought. This could mean doing something physical, like taking a walk or listening to music, or it could mean focusing on something else, like a task or a conversation.

If you’re struggling to cope with intrusive thoughts on your own, it’s important to seek professional help. A therapist can teach you coping skills and help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Here are some additional tips for coping with intrusive thoughts:

Talk to someone you trust about your intrusive thoughts. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else who you feel comfortable talking to.
Keep a journal of your intrusive thoughts. This can help you to track your thoughts and see how they change over time.
Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. These techniques can help to reduce anxiety and make it easier to cope with intrusive thoughts.
Get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet. These lifestyle changes can help to improve your overall mood and make it easier to cope with stress.
Remember, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience intrusive thoughts every day. With the right help, you can learn to manage your intrusive thoughts and live a full and productive life.