Hi @FlowingRiver2857, tw: intrusive thoughts
I'm new to this website too so bear with me.
I can soooo relate to this post. Thanks for being so courageous in sharing. It's so so hard going through intrusive thoughts. It can feel so isolating and frustrating at times. I never used to get really bad intrusive thoughts but they recently started up this year. I got this really scary vivid imagery, a bit like a nightmare but it happens while your awake. And sometimes if I got a bad intrusive thought I would try to do something compulsive in order to regulate myself. E.g:
Some things I've found helpful if your interested...
1. Surround yourself with those closest to you, those who love and care about you
2. Remember that these intrusive thoughts are only thoughts, and you have no desire to act on them, they are not harmful. Yes they can be really distressing but not harmful
3. Write down what your grateful for (this really helps me) I like to write it down in my journal.
4. Remind yourself of who you are, encourage yourself. I write down that I am smart and kind for example on post it notes and stick them up on my mirror so when I see myself I am reminded of who I am. I even put a picture of me as a toddler on the mirror to remind me that whatever negative or positive thing I say to myself, I am saying to her, my inner child.
5. Go out in nature, go for a run or a walk by yourself or with friends
6. Do something you enjoy. Whether that be art, playing a musical instrument, sports or cooking. Whatever brings you happiness.
Hope this helps. 🙂
