Do I deliberately welcome my ocd thoughts?

[oneanonParticipant]

Sometimes I worry that I deliberately welcome my ocd thoughts into my mind. The problem is my thoughts are so quick that I sometimes can’t figure out if it’s an intrusive thought or not. How do you know?

[avocadosontoastParticipant]

Hi there,

I worry about the same thing. When I was first diagnosed I did a lot of research about OCD and after reading about some of the intrusive thoughts that other people get, I started having them as well. I couldn’t tell if I was doing it on purpose or if it was actually an intrusive thought.

I think that if you don’t like the thoughts and find them distressing then they are probably intrusive thoughts. I found it really helpful to notice that these disturbing thoughts were causing me distress and took that distress to mean that they didn’t align with who I was.

I hope that helps.

[Forum Moderators]

Hi:

We’re sorry you haven’t had many replies yet and we want you to know that OCD Action offers other types of support for you.

You can contact the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service to talk to or email someone who understands OCD.

Our Helpline volunteers provide confidential information and support for people with OCD. Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand how it can impact your life. Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478
• email: support@ocdaction.orguk

Support groups for people with OCD offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support other people. Read information about UK-based groups here:

• OCD Action Skype/Phone/Zoom support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/i-need-support/ocd-action-skype-phone-zoom-support-groups/

If you don’t live in the UK, look for groups near you on the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) website. Under “Find Help”, choose “Listing Types”, then “Support Groups”: https://iocdf.org/

And please remember that you’re never alone – OCD Action is here to support you.

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