Do you have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? If so, you know that the thoughts that run through your head can be incredibly intrusive and annoying. It can be tough to stop them from taking over, but with a little bit of practice, you can get them under control. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies that can help you stop OCD thoughts from running wild.
Contents
What Are OCD Thoughts?
OCD thoughts are intrusive, persistent, and irrational worries or fears that can lead to obsessive behaviors. These obsessions are often focused on worries about safety, cleanliness, orderliness, or other issues. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and behaviors that cause distress or impairment. Individuals with OCD might have difficulty controlling their urges to do certain things. Here are some of the common signs of it:
- Recurring thoughts or images that feel intrusive and unwanted.
- Difficulty controlling urges or behaviors.
- Fear of germs, dirt, or contamination.
- Excessive checking to make sure something is safe/not damaged.
- Obsessing over orderliness, symmetry, and exactness.
Treatments For The OCD
Now, here’s a list of some therapies and treatments that can help you stop OCD thoughts from running wild:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is an evidence-based treatment for OCD. It helps patients learn how to identify, challenge, and replace their obsessive thoughts with healthier ones. It also helps them learn coping skills to manage their anxiety. The mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a form of CBT that combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive restructuring to help you reframe your thoughts and behavior.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
ERP is a type of therapy that helps patients confront their obsessions and resist compulsive behaviors. The therapist will gradually expose the patient to their fears in a safe, controlled environment. Then they will teach the patient how to resist the urges or compulsions associated with those fears. ERP has been proven to be effective in reducing OCD symptoms.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep brain stimulation is a surgical treatment for OCD. It involves implanting electrodes in the brain and using electrical impulses to stimulate certain parts of the brain that are involved in OCD symptoms. Studies have shown that DBS can be an effective treatment for people with severe and refractory forms of OCD.
Medication
Medication can be used to help reduce OCD symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for OCD, and they have been shown to be effective in reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antianxiety medications are also effective to treat OCD.
You better make sure the side effects of any medication you take are within your acceptable level. The suicide risk is higher with medications used to treat OCD so you must be monitored closely by your doctor.
How To Stop OCD Thoughts Naturally?
In addition to medical and therapy treatments, there are also some lifestyle changes that can help you stop OCD thoughts from running wild. Here are a few tips:
Accept And Resist Your Triggers
The first step to controlling OCD thoughts is to recognize what triggers your intrusive thoughts and anxieties. When you understand what sets off your obsessive thoughts, it’s easier to find ways to manage them. Once you recognize the triggers, practice resisting them by using relaxation and distraction techniques.
OCD thoughts are often based on irrational beliefs. It’s important to identify and challenge these beliefs to help reduce your anxiety.
Challenge Your Intrusive Thoughts
When faced with a thought that’s causing distress, try to challenge it by asking yourself: Is this really true? Am I being overly critical of myself? Once you start questioning your beliefs, it can be easier to let go of the obsession and move on.
When obsessive thoughts start to get the best of you, try to distract yourself with activities or hobbies that bring you joy. Listening to music, reading a book, or taking a walk can help take your mind off of your intrusive thoughts.
Practice Mindfulness And Relaxation Activity
Mindfulness is an effective technique for dealing with intrusive thoughts and fears. It involves being present in the moment and staying aware of your thoughts and feelings without judging them or letting them take over. Practicing mindfulness can help you become more mindful of when OCD thoughts arise, so you can better manage them.
These techniques can be combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, to help you reframe your thoughts and behavior. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to regain control of your life and reduce OCD symptoms.
Make Changes In Routine
Making changes in your routine can help reduce the frequency and intensity of OCD symptoms. Incorporating structure into your life can make it easier to manage the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors, as well as help you stay focused on positive goals.
Creating a calm environment by getting rid of clutter, making time for regular exercise, eating healthy meals, and establishing bedtime rituals can all contribute to reducing stress and anxiety associated with OCD thoughts. Get a proper sleep of 7-8 hours and take out some time for yourself. Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine consumption as these can worsen your symptoms.
Reach Your Family And Friend
It’s important to reach out for support when dealing with OCD, especially if you are struggling with it. Having a strong support system of family and friends can make all the difference in managing intrusive thoughts and maintaining a sense of control over your life.
Seek Professional Support
Talking to a therapist or counselor can help you gain insight into your condition and develop strategies for coping with anxiety and reducing obsessive thoughts. A mental health professional can also provide valuable resources, such as referrals for medication management or group therapy sessions. Professional treatment is often necessary when it comes to more severe cases of OCD.
Remember, OCD is an illness that takes time and effort to manage. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to reduce your intrusive thoughts and get back to living a healthy and fulfilling life.
Can Medication Stop OCD?
Medication is not a cure for OCD, but it can be used to help reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life. Antidepressants are often prescribed to treat OCD as they can help balance the levels of serotonin in your brain, which is believed to be responsible for regulating mood and behavior.
Conclusion
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a serious mental health disorder that can be debilitating if not properly managed. However, it is possible to manage OCD symptoms with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. Challenging irrational beliefs, practicing mindfulness and relaxation activities, making changes in routine, reaching out for family and friends’ support, and seeking professional help are all strategies that can help reduce obsessive thoughts and give you back control over your life.
For more information and guidance, please contact MantraCare. OCD is a mental health disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions. If you have any queries regarding Online OCD Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial OCD therapy session
