We’ve all had those random, unwanted thoughts that pop into our heads at the most inconvenient times. Why did I just think about that? It’s normal to feel a bit shaken by them, but here’s the scoop: Intrusive thoughts are more common than you might think. Let’s talk about why they happen, when they might be a red flag, and some tips to handle them.
We All Have Intrusive Thoughts
Believe it or not, almost everyone has experienced intrusive thoughts. Research shows that over 90% of people have had these sudden, unwelcome ideas. These thoughts can be about anything, but they often fall into a few categories:
- Scary thoughts: Worries about bad things happening to you or your loved ones.
- Inappropriate thoughts: Random, odd thoughts that don’t match up with your values or beliefs.
- Doubtful thoughts: Questions that stick with you, like “Did I really turn off the stove?”
Even though they can be weird or disturbing, these thoughts are usually harmless and don’t mean anything about who you are as a person.
When Should You Worry About Intrusive Thoughts?
While intrusive thoughts are generally no big deal, sometimes they can be a sign of something more serious. Here’s when to pay attention:
- They’re always there: If you’re getting these thoughts a lot and they’re really bugging you, it might be time to talk to someone.
- They’re messing with your life: If these thoughts make you do certain behaviors over and over (like checking or washing) or avoid things or situations, it could be part of an anxiety disorder.
- They make you really upset: If the thoughts lead to major anxiety, depression, or guilt, it’s important to get some help.
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, a mental health professional in Lake St. Louis or Ballwin, MO can give you a clearer picture and offer support. There are methods to give you relief and tools to equip you with in order to experience a decrease in these thoughts.
How to Handle Intrusive Thoughts
Dealing with intrusive thoughts doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some ways to manage them:
1. Accept and don’t judge
Remind yourself that intrusive thoughts are just thoughts. Remember they are common and they don’t define you. Instead of trying to fight or judge them, practice accepting them for what they are: just random brain blips.
2. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness can help you notice your thoughts without getting caught up in them. Try deep breathing, relaxation exercises, or meditation to stay grounded and reduce the power these thoughts have over you. Focus on the body and being in the present to serve as a distraction to the brain’s tendency to wander.
3. Try Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of therapy that can help you challenge and change negative thought patterns. It’s especially helpful for people with OCD. A CBT therapist can guide you through exercises to break the cycle of intrusive thoughts and behaviors. CBT offers a look at what your beliefs are, where you learned them, and where there may need to be a shift in the narrative.
4. Talk about it
Sharing your experiences with friends, family, or support groups can be really helpful. Knowing you’re not alone can reduce the shame and isolation you might feel. It also helps tremendously to externalize your thoughts/feelings so they don’t overwhelm your body.
5. Get professional help
If intrusive thoughts are seriously impacting your life, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can offer personalized treatment options, like therapy or medication, to help you manage. There are people trained to help walk you through this challenge in life and help you create a more positive, peaceful mindset.
Consider Therapy for Intrusive Thoughts Near Wentzville, MO
Intrusive thoughts are a normal part of life. While they can be unsettling, knowing that almost everyone has them can be reassuring. If these thoughts start to take over, don’t hesitate to seek support from a therapist near O’Fallon and Wentzville, MO who can help you navigate through them. By using strategies like acceptance, mindfulness, and CBT, you can keep intrusive thoughts from running your life.
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Marble Wellness Counseling services are designed to help set you on a path of living a more fulfilled, calm, and happy life. Our St. Louis area therapists have a variety of training backgrounds and areas of expertise. We specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, therapy for men, couples, and maternal overwhelm. Our practice also helps new moms with various postpartum concerns, moms in the thick of parenting, and moms with teens. We can also chat from wherever you are in the state with online therapy in Missouri. No matter where you are in your journey, we are here to help you thrive!
