Intrusive Thoughts ... Just Thoughts? (Episode 011)

Disordered: Anxiety Help

This week on Disordered, Josh and Drew discuss scary, unwanted, recurring, intrusive thoughts that can frighten us and trigger high levels of anxiety and discomfort. The guys talk about the many different themes that intrusive thoughts cover including thoughts about harm, sexuality and sexual orientation, relationships, health, death, and existential issues. While intrusive thoughts are usually associated with OCD, they are generally present for almost anyone that struggles with any anxiety disorder.

This episode also examines the idea that "thoughts are just thoughts", which is true, but doesn't really accurately validate the intense anxiety and threat response that so many unwanted intrusive thoughts can trigger. Josh and Drew also discuss the idea that you cannot decide to not have thoughts, and that having disturbing or scary thoughts does not mean you are broken or a horrible person, even when the thoughts themselves are telling you that.

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Disclaimer: Disordered is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. Listening to Disordered does not create a therapeutic relationship between you and the hosts of the podcast. Information here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care providers. If you are having a mental health crisis, always reach out immediately for in-person help.