3 types of intrusive thoughts and what to do about them

[@ocdandanxiety]

How do your intrusive thoughts present themselves? 🧠

[@saanzarahmed8343]

HOCD .! And it’s killing me😭🙁

[@richardowens9626]

Nathan I want to confirm the 3 intrusive thoughts: Sexual, Violent and Junk. It blended a little for me.

[@Stan-ev8dd]

I got a repeating sentence in head. It makes think I'm gonna die from it sometimes.

[@adiamalem9246]

I have harm ocd thought and I honestly believe im a sociopath please make a video on that

[@sheyanderson9498]

As germs being everywhete

[@RedDeadSpree]

ocd really feels like a part of ur brain is actively trying to hinder u from enjoying ur life

[@KingKeK]

I used to say Tom Hanks after every thing i said. everyone thought it was so funny. but coudnt help it and i was so scared inside

[@Christina.N.]

Legitimately, tho.

[@Anyoneoutthere89]

One million percent

[@MorgothPoD666]

Real and true

[@saharafradi]

But why

[@hanamaria777]

my intrusive thoughts make me feel like such a disgusting person that it brings me to tears sometimes when they wont shut up

[@lycanlucian1325]

"Just because you have a thought, doesn't mean that it's real." - Joe Dispenza

[@DanishAirsoftguy]

@@lycanlucian1325thanks bro I needed that

[@eijirokirishima4138]

This! And I have very vivid dreams of doing these horrible things which only makes me feel so much worse.

[@123WONDERHOYWonderlandxshowtim]

​@@eijirokirishima4138Same! I'm still very young and I get these thoughts, often at night and they usually occur around harmful objects alot.. I don't have to courage to ask for any help, but I don't wanna hurt people. I hope things get better for you, don't give up!🙂

[@unityeze1336]

@@123WONDERHOYWonderlandxshowtimyou tooo

[@justmadeit2]

Our brains are our worst enemy at times

[@salehegury7474]

True

[@EresBoribor]

Very true

[@Astro_p70]

Fr

[@Mikke-G]

Even without OCD, your biggest enemy is your mindset

[@gojiralegendary4009]

​@@Mikke-Gis there cure for this illness? I hate it so much I can't do work, enjoy my sleep times and anything... It taking away all the happiness I have before

[@Hison-Dcarman]

I was having so much suicidal thoughts 10 years ago as a teenage, also suffered severe anxiety and mental disorder. I got diagnosed with bipolar, spent my whole life fighting bipolar. Not until my wife recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment changed my life for better. I can proudly say i'm totally clean for 6 years and still counting. Always look to nature for solution to tough problems, Shrooms are phenomenal.

[@Morrisbraga-jm9lc]

I love hearing great life changing stories like this. I want to become a mycologist because honestly mushrooms are the best form of medicine (most especially the psychedelic ones) There are so many people today used magic mushrooms to ween off of SSRI medication- its amazing! Years back i wrote an entire essay about psychedelics. they saved you from death buddy, lets be honest here.

[@ErnestoHorner88]

Can you help me with the reliable source 🙏. I'm 56 and have suffered for years with addiction, anxiety and severe ptsd, I got my panic attacks under control myself years ago and they have come back with a vengeance, I'm constantly trying to take full breaths but can't get the full satisfying breath out, it's absolutely crippling me, i live in Germany. I don't know much about these mushrooms. Really need a reliable source!! Can't wait to get them

[@DonnDenisse]

Yes sure of mycologist Pedroshrooms. I have the same experience with anxiety, addiction. Mushrooms did a total reset for me.

[@canerbakar-jv2si]

I'm so very happy for you mate, Psilocybin is absolutely amazing, the way it shows you things, the way it teaches you things. I can not believe our world and our people shows less interest about it's helpfulness to humanity. It's love. The mushrooms heals people by showing the truth, it would be so beneficial for so many people, especially politicians and the rich who have lost their way and every other persons out there.

[@bru-x8d]

Where do I reach this dude? If possible can I find him on Google

[@Alpha-Scythe23]

The reason why I freaked out so much about the intrusive thoughts is because I thought they eventually influence you to commit them. Because of how frequent they are.

[@savowtruffle]

Me too. They have me thinking I'm a monster.

[@lalalalalalalala8558]

SAME! I am so glad people here understand me so well... i think we're more alike than we think. i have been dealing with this problem ever since i was a kid (i'm 25 now), but it got more severe around the past 5 years or so ago. throughout this time I've learned that no matter how much they come in your head, they can't make you do anything. and they won't change your beliefs or your mindset. so it gives me more faith and hope.

[@diversidadecientifica5450]

Exactly. I've been struggling so much with this things because at some point, I simply couldn't distinguish what was or wasn't a intrusive thought, it look like they were consuming me bit by bit until I actually became a horrible person. I never told this to anybody because I had a fair share of horrible intrusive thoughts about me and other people... It's truly terrifying

[@Alpha-Scythe23]

@@lalalalalalalala8558 amen to that!! It definitely takes skill to understand your thoughts and not take them too literal. But we care so much about our loved ones and others we want to stay accountable about what we think.

[@Alpha-Scythe23]

@@diversidadecientifica5450 Are you seeking treatment for it!? Through NOCD?

[@cirkusanette]

I didn't know I had OCD until like 2 weeks ago. Literally had it all my life and didn't even know the name. When I go back to when the intrusive thoughts became the darkest (I'm talking freaking r4pe, inc3st, p3do) and the most constant, I almost unalived myself because if you don't know OCD is a thing it just feels like you are thw worst person alive and you are beyond any reasonable explanation (I lived 3 years like this). Please be aware that these thoughts can be incredibly dark and it is not your fault, you are sick, not a bad person. You wouldn't blame a diabetic for not being able to produce insulin, so don't blame yourself. The fact that these thoughts cause you so much distress is a sign of your goodness ❤️

[@PeacefurystudiosXx]

Oh my god, I’m having the same intrusive thoughts myself, mostly racism, and the rest of the things that you described. My family has a history of OCD so I think I should go to a therapist to see if I have it. I started scratching at my skin whenever I have these thoughts and have thought of attempting as well, I was so worried. Now that I have an explanation as to why my brain is like this I feel so much better, thank you so much dude.

[@edithdlp8045]

​​@@PeacefurystudiosXxmy intrusive thoughts are of harming myself. It's scary. I am going to a therapist. I just began last week and she told me had anxiety. I hope she can help me because this is scary.

[@georgemccall-zz4pd]

how did you eventually get them under control?

[@greenie5875]

I really needed to hear this man. Thank you bro

[@CraigKTalks]

My thoughts was a lot of anxiety around it because of someone accusing me in the past. I'd never even had them until then. Then I got horrendous thoughts and it's ruined my life I felt so alone and like noone understood. I really hope I can get the help I need.

[@ana.maria..3]

for everyone dealing with this you are *not* alone and *good* *luck* *God* *bless*

[@ian-online]

it doesn't make me feel ashamed, but just EXHAUSTED and distracted to have thoughts that detach from what I do everyday.

[@marjanegrimes]

My intrusive thoughts have been so horrible lately I want to not exist anymore. Hearing others talk about it takes some pressure off.

[@ramuzi1257]

You got this, just keep going!

[@tommywalker1631]

hey maggie it will work out for you.I know its weird but the thoughts make you feel weird, buit they wont break you

[@kgomotso__precious]

Keep going Maggie. You are not alone. Mostly you are loved. ❤️

[@flaneuredits]

IVE BEEN HAVING THESE WEIRD THOUGHTS AND ITS NOT EVEN FUNNYYYY SO BASICALLY IM IN YEAR 10 AND THERES THIS RANDOM KID IN YEAR 7 THAT I DONT EVEN KNOW AND HES CUTE BUT NOT IN THAT WAY BUT MY BRAIN ALWAYS TELLS ME TO THINK ABOUT HIS FACE FOR NO REASON AND NOW IM QUESTIONING IF I NEED TO GO TO A MENATL FACILITY OR SOMETHING SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME

[@Pilkkukatti]

Same.. I’m so fking tired.

[@Alimohamed-qk7el]

Can we take a moment to thank this legendary man for what he does. I seriously can't believe that these tips worked. I went to many therapist and none of them made a difference with me but you, you made everything that I wished for and thank you for that!

[@ocdandanxiety]

This really made my day! 💜

[@johnnymanning4920]

I agree. Thank you for this video.

[@destanietaylor5233]

Does anyone happen to know the name of the song that’s playing in this video?

[@contentedspirit9022]

​@@destanietaylor5233) The song is called "Islands In The Stream", sung by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. The song was written by Barry Gibb of the BeeGees.

[@simonwood1853]

Thank you for this and all the work you do. You are taking the fear out of these mental health conditions and bringing straightforward understanding to the problem. Thank you once again!

[@keegan6863]

This really helped man, I have intrusive thoughts a lot and it feels nice to know I'm not alone in intrusive thoughts.

[@VR-oy3fu]

Stay strong friend. Me too. I just saw a few of these videos and for the first time I truly don't care if these thoughts keep coming back. I wouldn't even say these thoughts have gone away for me, but I feel ok with them now.

[@ocdandanxiety]

Of course! You are never ever alone.

[@pratyushranjan1401]

I don't want intrusive thoughts while I am concentrating on something important

[@srishtysamal8600]

Sometimes it feels as if I'm thinking such things intentionally. I would think "Oh you're not your mind so think whatever you want!" But then later on I find myself extremely guilty and feel like a terrible person. I even have nervous breakdowns. I don't know what to do.

[@TheEmpressNyx]

Thank you so much, Nathan!! You are a lifesaver. Struggling with “pure” OCD for 1.5 years now, and episodes of anxiety and certain temporary obsessions over my life, I didn’t get a formal diagnosis until this past December. Learning about OCD makes so much sense now! And the connection it has to previous or childhood stress and trauma. Your videos and your positive energy have made a difference in my life, as has therapy. You are doing God’s work. May you continue to be happy and blessed! We love you Nathan!

[@ocdandanxiety]

This is so kind. Thank you! I am glad I could help you.

[@messengercrow]

I’m having the exact same ocd junk thoughts. They won’t stop. I finally found a video that put it the best into words what my problem is. Been on citalopram for 3 weeks. Nothing has changed. Overall two months of pure terror I’ve had.

[@Minikong4960]

Take it from someone going through the worst of it. You are not alone, and you have my prayers

[@iwiwd624]

Same here my friend. I hate when they pop up it feels impossible to not obsess over and try and find tons of evidence to support that the thought isn’t true. It’s miserable

[@mistergalamba8441]

I was having this type of terrible thoughts these 5 last days, feeling like a bad person and was anxious about it, I’m glad that I’m not alone and can share my thoughts with you people!

[@GavinDevaux]

How are you doing I’m scared

[@robertellis1281]

🙏 for you

[@Niki2k-br]

'A thought is just a thought' This video and learning more about intrusive thoughts has helped me to deal with it better,I deal with intrusive thoughts and anxiety on a daily basis, it ain't easy but I believe that it's going to get better, Thank u for this video

[@meing7642]

Hi, i'm 50 yrs old. my crippling OCD has me constantly holding my breath, physically feeling these intrusive thoughts in my head, obsessing over every little thing i see... even words... therefore makes reading a task. i can't stare at anything more than a second. i can't absorb anything anyone says. it makes me not want to live because there is no quality. I'm self conscious and have no self esteem or confidence. nothing but guilt 24/7 and my heart races from the anxiety all day long.. i honestly thought i was the only one, and i'm just born with a shorted circuit. It wasn't until recently I've discovered its debilitating ocd.. Look, it even prevented me from reading and researching my conditions .. I'm fighting through it while typing this.. I'm so over it thank you for doing this xo

[@javiercastro077]

Stay strong, brother. Big hug.

[@johnloftin2461]

I've been dealing with OCD tendencies and Scrupilosity for many years. These types of thoughts are just so draining and distorting. Thanks for the vid

[@mrskwan3495]

Feeling better?

[@Groinch]

You just saved my life not even joking. I felt so horrified, disgusted etc about my intrusive thoughts. I never had questioned myself in regards of my thoughts but these thoughts literally made me question myself as a human being, as a person and as a partner to a beautiful wife. But this method seems to work against my diagnosed panic/anxiety and it's amazing, hopefully it'll become 2nd nature like before! Thanks and good luck to everyone.

[@Mauijanerey]

I'm proud of yaa

[@Groinch]

@@Mauijanerey Thanks, it's only been a month since I posted this comment and the method worked wonders for me!

[@ablirr]

Great work, glad to hear you're doing better. I hope I power through efficiently just like you!

[@RiffenJP]

Hate it when some of my intrusive thoughts start with "I want" or "I'm" and they're very declarative, it's really terror inducing.

[@PepiToutou]

Or "Im going to../I will" Even when i know logically that i won't go that.. It's crazy..been struggling with OCD for about 5 months now..I hope you got better

[@areenakausar8806]

This! I hate the narration or declaration your brain makes up in response to those intrusive thoughts. Thr brain is like “what im saying is the truth, you must believe me” and somewhere ur rational mind knows that might not be the truth but u cant help but associate with ur anxious mind.

[@areenakausar8806]

And on top of that, those intrusive thoughts are so bad and sometimes so horrible that u cant even tell it to people because it make u feel embarrassed. I have this one intrusive thought that is so crippling, something related to my past and even though i remember how that event turned out to be, and how everything was fine between me and my family after that, my brain still somehow latches onto that memory from when i was 6-7 and still tries to manipulate it into something so horrible that i cant even tell anyone what the intrusive thought is. And the declaration my brain makes is that this manipulation is actually true. Although my rational mind knows that it is not true. I wonder if this is a kind of intrusive thought too

[@RiffenJP]

@@PepiToutou I did. ERP and therapy helped me get through this particularly rough time. Unfortunately, my current theme focuses on my health now but I'm also working through that with ERP. Seek out ERP as soon as you can! It's tough but helpful

[@brandonarcos2526]

I’ve been dealing with this for the past couple of months it honestly has made me feel depressed and anxious/anxiety that it has taken over my life. This video really does help me because it makes me feel like I’m not crazy or not as guilty. I felt like a horrible person and couldn’t understand why am I thinking the way that I am but this video has truly open my eyes and I just wanted to say thank you 🙏.

[@SpencerLuxBurton]

A popular guru has said "The human mind is incapable of subtraction. It can only do addition and multiplication of thought."

[@southlondon86]

Sir who was that guru?

[@paolamec365]

@@southlondon86it’s Sadhguru

[@southlondon86]

@@paolamec365 Sir he’s not a real guru, he’s a fake ‘social media friendly’ businessman.

[@honneybearr]

@@southlondon86he’s not wrong about what he said tho 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@southlondon86]

@honneybearr Fake gurus can read up facts and phrases by others, sir.

[@blackairforce1s337]

Wow bro you really helped me I’ve been struggling for about 5 years now and hearing this just flipped everything for the better

[@trevorwilson5413]

Thank you so much. I’ve been dealing with horrible thoughts for the past few days and It’s taken a toll on my mental health but after seeing everybody going through the same thing it has really made me feel so much better. It’s getting better day by day and I feel myself coming back : )

[@FarahBakhtaoui]

Can you please tell me how you doing now after doing "nothing" and welcome thoses ideas do you feel better and did theses ideas go ?

[@eliadube9672]

I seriously thought that I was becoming a crazy person. It's really nice to know that I'm just having thoughts and not creating fcats

[@_soaps_686]

I’m so glad I found your channel. Your overall demeanor is so calming and it helps me feel like this mountain I’m climbing is simply a hike. Thank you!

[@BBbalistia]

Thank you. I thought I was a horrible person, it’s nice to know that what I am experiencing isn’t something I invited and I am not alone. I don’t want to allow these thoughts to consume me.

[@ocdandanxiety]

You are definitely not alone!

[@ecomtrainer9972]

Omg me too I had thoughts about obscene things I thought I was a terrible person. I'm so happy I'm not alone.

[@platogenova9573]

@@ecomtrainer9972 you’re not alone at all

[@زینبساداتاحمدیطباطبایی]

Yes undoubtedly you aren't alone

[@gustavoluna499]

You are not alone.

[@acrankymushroom]

THANK YOU! As a young person with many intrusive thoughts this is helpful, as I recently the gates of my mind fortress broken into, and attacked by these thoughts.

[@uniquecrafter4432]

I really want to give u a hug. Really really want you to be my therapist. Thanks for the videos, Nate!

[@ocdandanxiety]

Wow, thank you! Glad you like them.

[@lycan954]

Tysm for making this video, ive experienced extreme trauma from last year, it has given me night terrors, and now recently intrusive thoughts that may have stemmed from this. I cant look at anything or anyone the same ever since my intrusive thoughts gotten worse, and its like true hell for me, maybe worse than the actual trauma itself. This video made me feel like an actual person again, i was so scared i was a person with no worth to walk on this earth like everyone else does, and I'm so happy that the intrusive thoughts i have are common amongst other people, it makes me feel not alone, and i really hope these strategies work, tysm for helping people like me who cant get personal therapists ♥️

[@keepgoing5177]

I wish you the best in life ❤

[@grant4631]

Thank you Nate, this video really helped bring some comfort and hope for dealing with difficult thoughts. I never thought doing nothing would be the best approach to managing my intrusive thoughts lol. I have spent too much time in the past trying to understand thoughts rather than letting them be. This video helped me to see clearly that only the importance I place on intrusive thoughts gives them power. Thank you again, look forward to future content!

[@ocdandanxiety]

You've got it! I am so glad I could provide some help.

[@jamlaw]

It blows my mind whenever I hear that example of the person who just notices the thought and goes "huh, that was weird..." and let's it go. To me that's like hearing someone had their foot run over by a car and went, "huh, that was odd..." and kept walking. It shows me how different I am and helps me want to seek help.

[@ronsalvo5750]

You are right on. Everything you’re saying makes so much sense to me, because I am working on recovery even as we speak. Thanks for your contribution.

[@aniruirui00]

I had no idea I had so many intrusive thoughts until you talked about the types. I've had a intrusive thought a couple of days ago and it emotionally drained me. I tried to find steps and ways to stop it, but just like you said, it kept coming back. I hope your method works and am going to try my best to welcome the thoughts instead of trying to push it away. Thank you!

[@Uplift_001]

How are you now?

[@saddersettings]

Thank you so much Nathan! I have experienced all of these kind of thoughts and now you've explained them it makes so much sense. I have come to accept the fact that they happen to everybody and me having those thoughts do not necessarily mean anything.

[@ocdandanxiety]

Glad I could help!

[@shyaaammeneen63]

Jayashree. Be careful what you feed your mind. Reduce watching negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 10-15-20 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. One more tip is to sit on a chair without moving, be still and observe your breath for a few minutes. Stillness reduces thoughts and brings quick relief. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.

[@WheelEstate]

Thank you. I got stuck in an obsessive thought-loop this morning and wasted a lot of time. Then I got mad at myself for having wasted all that time doing mental rituals and later physical rituals (compulsions). What I was obsessing about was so stupid and so unrealistic, but I just couldn't shake the 0.00001% possibility that it could've happened. I kept telling myself to just accept the anxiety, talk back to it and move on using the tips you've taught in previous videos, but I just thought that if I thought about it for a few more seconds then I could solve it and feel better. I knew that was a lie but I hoped this time would be different. An hour and a half later... So as much as I wanted to just move on with my day, I couldn't. I knew that eventually the anxiety would go away, but living with the anxiety in the meantime is just so uncomfortable! I knew I was giving into OCD, but I just wanted to get rid of the anxiety. I knew that solving it would cause more anxious thoughts to come, but I just didn't care because "I needed to get rid of the anxiety". That's all I could think about. But compulsions led to new obsessions. Here's what's so sinister about my OCD: I know it's OCD. I know the events I'm worried about didn't happen or won't happen. And I know that once I solve the obsession, I'll just have a new obsession about something else. And then my brain will immediately accept that the former obsession was complete nonsense. I knew that all along, but my brain was still struggling with the "what if?" It's like I have two brains: My rational brain and then my OCD brain. My regular brain knows something isn't a risk or concern, but my OCD brain screams its concerns so loudly. And in order to move on, I have to appease the OCD brain. But once I give in to the obsession, my brain will immediately acknowledge that the former obsession was asinine and not a real concern. I won't even worry about that former obsession anymore because now I'm obsessed with something new. And then I'll regret that I gave in to the former obsession and I'll beat myself up over it. But at the same time, if I didn't give in to that obsession and perform the compulsion, then I'd still be experiencing anxiety about the former obsession. So I have a choice: (1) Live with the anxiety of the current obsession or (2) Perform a compulsion and then immediately regret doing so because now my brain accepts that the former obsession was stupid, and then be obsessed with something new. Rinse and repeat. Here's a real example: I'm worried that I scratched my phone screen. I know it's stupid and I know it's unrealistic. I know I didn't do it. But I can't shake the feeling that maybe I did, because my fingernails are a little longer than I normally keep them. Or maybe I think I tapped my screen a little harder than I normally do, so now I'm worried that I cracked or scratched the screen. I struggle with neurotic perfectionism: One of the ways this manifests is that I can't accept when I've done something to damage or alter something from its original or perceived-perfect state. Especially if that situation could've been easily avoided. If someone else damages it, I find it easier to accept. But not me. So I try to move on and live with the anxiety. I try to get on with my day. But I just can't shake the feeling that there's a scratch on my phone screen. The anxiety builds. I can't focus on anything else. I know what will happen if I give in to the compulsion, but I hope that this time will be different. We're all familiar with that lie, right? So I give in and inspect my phone for scratches. I don't see any on the screen. Phew! I feel better, but now I'm worried that when I picked up my phone to look at the screen, my fingernails scratched the rear camera lens. And a scratched camera lens is way worse than a scratched screen! My anxiety is through the roof! My brain immediately accepts the reality that there was never a true fear or concern that my screen was scratched. My brain accepts that it was stupid all along. So I immediately regret giving in to that obsession. And then I immediately start worrying about having potentially scratched the camera lens. And then I beat myself up over the possibility, because it could've been so easily avoided had I not checked my screen for scratches. Especially when I "knew" the screen obsession was my OCD and not a real fear. So now the lens obsession is a new obsession. What do I do? Do I live with that anxiety or do I check the camera lens for scratches? Rinse and repeat. I could write books about all the ways OCD and anxiety manifest in my life. Thank you for your channel. It has been really helpful. And to all of you who are struggling with OCD and anxiety, my heart goes out to you. ❤️

[@hollyflaxman633]

Thank you for being so honest. This helps people with recovery!!

[@WheelEstate]

@@hollyflaxman633 You are so welcome! It was very liberating to explain all of that. I normally keep it as hidden as possible lol.

[@sleepykid2079]

This is literally me rn.. im wasting my time getting anxious abt a thought which I know isn’t true. Like that event just can’t happen but my ocd is trying so bad to convince me that I might’ve done that horrible thing and I’m just pretending to have not done it uh.. On top of it, my ocd asks me, “look if someone gets to know what you’ve done, what will they say? Won’t they think of you as a psychopath?” Which increases the anxiety 10x times.. further my rational brain tells me accept the thought (just as how most people in vids say…) but then my ocd changes it’s side saying “if you haven’t done it at all, if you can’t imagine doing that at all, then why would you accept in the first place?” And that’s how it forces me to get into a debate w my minds and end up wasting me time. Uh, this is just to tiring … my ocd attaches such inappropriate irrational sexual meanings to every single thing and then I’ve to sit and figure out what were my honest intentions .. I feel like I’m out of the world lol .. like I’m someone who’s totally a crazy person n others will stay away from me if they ever get to know

[@xoniye3573]

@@sleepykid2079 hey man. I feel you dude. Its this constant thing that someting needs to be SOLVED! and unt it is not solved we cannot move on with life. Man i hate it so much i often cry thinking how my life is being wasted like this and how happy i would be if i didnt have this stupid disorder!!!! It is so hard to stay anxious without trying to engage and problem solve the thoughts because it keeps going. Hopefully we all find peace in life

[@roby9762]

You said when someone else do it, you will accept, but when you do it, you can't accept it.. It means you have compassion for others but you don't have compassion for yourself.. Please start with self compassion.. Research on it extensively please

[@Rama-yz1pl]

This made me so much better , thank you, I've had a really tough time but now I feel much better and I don't feel like a horrible person anymore .

[@destinylugo5108]

Thank you so much! The thoughts are harmless and don’t mean anything.

[@dornadorna.]

i’ve been struggling with ocd for years now and i’m only19 sometimes i cry because i feel lonely and sad and deep down i know that i’m far different from these kind of thoughts i struggle with anorexia as well when i was 16 man nothing is better than your welfare!!!i have obsessions that god doesn’t love me and he’s never gonna approve me and the weird fact is that i’m not even religious but i profoundly worship god💜still these thoughts are with me and sometimes from the amount of anxiety i carry around during the day i lose my consciousness and i sleep i genuinely don’t wish this disorder on my worst enemy -i wish all the best for those people who are suffering from this disorder,love ya all🫶🏻🫶🏻😞🌻🩷💜 -btw,thank you so much for this great video🙏🙏🙏

[@ggstylz]

Your understanding of intrusive thoughts and how to treat them is commendable Nathan.

[@Username_Invalid]

I love you for this video ❤. Intrusive harm thoughts really, really scared me. Not creating a plan and inviting a thought just as a thought will help me. I have faith.

[@ablirr]

It's funny how OCD and intrusive thoughts intertwine, because now I want to watch this video over and over again to reinforce the crucial information into my brain, when in reality I already know what to do. Perhaps I'll watch this guy's OCD video next.

[@CozyToni]

It feels so good knowing that I'm not alone! Thank you for such a wise and helpful video. ☺️

[@saltydog22179]

This is a great video Nate! Your videos have helped me so much in my recovery process - they are incredible. It's almost like you can see inside my head! I could not be more grateful for all the work you've done for the OCD, anxiety, and mental health community. And I love the sense of humor you use with the sound effects and music in your videos - it really helps me to use a humorous approach with my OCD!

[@ocdandanxiety]

Thanks so much for the kind words! That means a lot!

[@saltydog22179]

Also, I think it's a really good point about feeling like some thoughts are different from the rest - like I can't just let these thoughts be because they're special for whatever reason - even though logically, I know they aren't! It's just OCD playing tricks on me.

[@cameramike2515]

You really are a godsend to this platform. I always have intrusive thoughts and it’s hard to stop them personally and sometimes they devolve into compulsions. This really put things into perspective for me. Thoughts are simply just thoughts and we should accept them rather than avoid them. Thank you so much!

[@valerie963]

I don’t know how you don’t have millions of followers. You’re amazing and the humor is on point! Thank you so much for your work 👏🏻

[@moonlight5237]

My OCD level has recently reached to the point that I keep a deep breath until something positive pops up in my mind and that's definitely hurting! Tnx for your informative video! I'm struggling hard ! Wish me luck !

[@keepgoing5177]

I wish you all the luck in the world 🧡

[@kayurranchod8860]

Thanks!

[@ocdandanxiety]

Yippppy! Thanks so much for your support! It really means a lot to me! I hope you're doing well!

[@saanzarahmed8343]

I can’t tell u how good I felt after watching this video 😭.! God bless you my friend

[@ocdandanxiety]

Wow, thank you!

[@mewanthakaluarachchi2494]

Thank you very much for this video. This is very valuable to my life. It's a relief to know that these thoughts are just normal and it is when we make a big deal out it that it bothers us!

[@vanbrush9537]

Great video, for me the thougths have a lot of power when I am more fragile, If I am depressed or I have a lack of sleep.

[@joeygilcrease9123]

Thanks for explaining my pain. I literally been trapped in this cycle. Since my surgery these thoughts want let me live. Thanks may God bless you!!! Keep teaching techniques I need it...

[@verystrselemaon7573]

I joined therapy and it helped my OCD tremendously but now it has morphed into relationship anxiety :( Your videos help me so much. I really want my relationship to work. Could you make a video on normal changes that happen as couples spend more and more time together and how these might not seem normal to a brain stuck on anxiety? Like my boyfriend was telling me about this idea and I yawned while hearing it and that made me question my interest in the idea, and then him, it is honestly hellish.

[@ocdandanxiety]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. Have you run into my relationship OCD video? kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3_HfIZ7i6l6hZo This may help!

[@vinayawalimbe2624]

Thank you so much for this video 🙏 ... This has helped me and I have started saying thank you to everything ... Previously I was only grateful for happy things ... I learned a true lesson of gratefulness today ... I feel so much better now 🙏🙏

[@nico_vigil]

Every so often I have intrusive thoughts and when they come they hit me so hard and I’m so glad I’m not alone. I love people and myself so when I think like this it makes me uneasy. They normally go away after a few days/weeks and I really believe doing nothing allows them to fade off!

[@studyingvideology1362]

Hey! First of all Thank you so much, you are literally saving my life, i am doing good... So kindly make a vid on Racing thoughts also if you can !! (I love you

[@AMYBIERHAUS]

Racing thoughts, yes! Great suggestion! 🤩

[@ocdandanxiety]

Great idea. I will add this to my list. I think the one closest related I have right now is my rumination video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYacdXqbiZ2Chtk

[@larryberkovski439]

Same.

[@AlisonBryen]

Yep i would really appreciate one on racing thoughts too!

[@cstlye187artz3]

Please do one on racing thoughts caused from OCD 👍

[@thechaoticwitchnl]

You and your videos are truly amazing, when i am panic mode i come back to your videos and it is the only thing that helped me so far ❤🙏

[@smile-lp4pb]

I started having intrusive thoughts about 3 months ago, I was really scared and I even hated my brain. Thanks for your video it helped me have a different mindset to make these monsters less valuable in my lovely life i'm having right now. i hope i can move on and be better. love your video, it's amazing, very helpful

[@sweekarlakshman2806]

Thank you 😍 This actually works. Will see how it goes forward

[@ijeomaokere]

Thank you so much I have intrusive thoughts that want to destroy my life ,I lost my mum I keep on blaming myself for her death,over not prayers,and when ever I see one I have this urge to tell he or she to be prayerful,this keep happening for 11 years, thank you for this content.

[@matasburdulis8289]

Love your videos, your advice has been extremely helpful for me, it made me realise how thoughts are and always will be just meaningless junk and nothing else. Love your videos. Keep up the good work Nathan!!!

[@ocdandanxiety]

Thank you, Matas! It bring me joy knowing that you enjoy the content.

[@kimjohnson4697]

Thank you for sharing this . I now don’t feel alone anymore knowing I was going through this .

[@ocdandanxiety]

I'm so glad!

[@annab331]

This video made me laugh and tear up with relief. Thank you

[@IDoVoodoo]

I feel way so much Thank you so much I was waiting desperately for somebody to do something

[@edwardhitchings2404]

Thanks Nathan. I've had pure O for 40 years and only just began with ERP therapy in the UK. I've found your videos very helpful. Keep up the good work. It seems like there is more understanding of pure O and OCD in general in the US. Mine has robbed me of so much over the years but I am now having some days where I feel happy in my own skin.

[@larryberkovski439]

Thank you SO MUCH. I have been suffering with this for so long. I was so scared at first because I did not understand why I was having these thoughts but then, somehow, I realized that this might be OCD. Thanks for all of your tips. I am getting so much better at accepting the thoughts rather than trying to push them away. The only thing I still have to work on is my checking compulsion. This usually comes when school starts. Thanks again. 😊😊😊

[@ocdandanxiety]

Thank you for sharing! I am so glad I could help.

[@karkkimarkkinat2109]

That feeling when you realize there's a thing called intrusive thoughts and that you've silently suffered with this shit for 20 years thinking it was normal 😅

[@yelyahfan88x94]

Same. Looking back now I can believe I actually did so many silly things thinking they were keeping me safe.

[@stephanietucker249]

I’m 18 and have a really good memory. I have a very love hate relationship with my good memory. It really is a great thing. But such a curse at the same time. I was diagnosed with ocd intrusive thoughts 2 years ago. But I think I’ve had the ocd since elementary school. It drives me insane when unpleasant thoughts play in my mind over and over again. I’ve been super close to punching a wall a few times and have thrown things a few times. Almost everyone I know is so jealous of my good memory. They don’t realize the downside to it. I’ve tried literally everything to help with my intrusive thoughts. And some things have helped a little but not enough. So I went on ocd meds about a month ago and haven’t seen much improvement. But I really hope I’ll see some improvement soon

[@mrskwan3495]

Feeling better?

[@ondranow1]

Thank you so much for this video. It has been over 3 months since I started having problems with intrusive thoughts. I had no idea what was happening, and before I found an answer, I was afraid that I had schizophrenia or irreversible brain damage. It took me a long time to find out (at least I hope) that these are just intrusive thoughts + possibly OCD. For me, it manifests in a way that a word I heard or read a few moments ago often comes back to my mind. Sometimes, a random word pops into my mind, intruding into my thought process and having nothing to do with it. The very fact that this happens causes me great anxiety and fear that I have a sick mind or a damaged brain. Even a brief glance with peripheral vision at some text, and my head throws up what it thinks is written there - usually incorrectly filling in based on a few letters what is written. I have no compulsions except for Googling symptoms. So, maybe pure O.

[@justtalkin2558]

This has gotta be one of the best pieces of advice I've ever received ❤

[@ocdandanxiety]

Wow, thank you! I'm glad you think so.

[@AbigailPrice-0809]

Thank you so much, ive been dealing with things like this awhile and this is helping me a bit! Thank you nate! ❤

[@yelyahfan88x94]

I'm trying to work on not reacting but it's so concerning and scary when I don't because then my brain says I changed and like it now. It's so draining because these are awful things, I know I had them for years but it was never this bad and my days are spent struggling and no matter how much I try to do the work, no matter how many signs there are that it's OCD I still doubt myself because I struggle to believe I'm a good person. Also you say don't label it but a lot of other Doctors say to name it and I get confused.

[@godsangel8248]

Your first sentence is very relatable for me. Thank you for saying this, because I thought I was alone in that department. When I don't react, I start to feel like I've changed "my"mind too, but let me tell you this...the universe is with you and loves you. When I'm struggling with it, I ask for signs. And they're signs are never them punishing me for it, they know I have intrusive thoughts, like c'mon now lol. Just...always know it's not your fault. These thoughts may stem from past trauma, or maybe they just happen. Either way, it isn't your fault, and the Universe (or God, whatever you prefer to say 🙂) already knows you're not a bad person. The fact that you're even CONCERNED and seeking HELP just shows you aren't. Whilst others let it take them over, and they actually start to ACT ON those thoughts, and can care less about getting help or getting better. Just remember that. You are loved, and you're NOT a bad person, okay? ❤

[@mere0leona]

this is such a good video, thank you so much. it deadass made me cry. i havent cried in months, if not years. i learned from a different video to name those thoughts to distance yourself from it (like giving it an actual name), so now ill combine these 2 things and go "oh hey billy bob whats up" whenever that thought pops up. And in the comment sections i often read that physical exercise (like actual sport) also helps a lot, so ill be amping that up too. The internet is a great thing, so many resources, so many ideas. Even though this kind of contradicts the "not coming up with a plan" part of your video, i feel like this is a good balance of all these things.

[@incognitocat555]

Thanks for the advice! I'm going to try giving it a name and more exercise, too.

[@RoyalAspects]

Without going into too much detail I’m currently dealing with some harmful intrusive thoughts that I’m scared of because if acted upon could possibly end up getting myself killed they started off small but they evolved into a lot more dangerous things and have been tempted to do dangerous stuff but like you said for a few days I just fight through the pain and continue with my day like the thought isn’t happening and I need to rewrite my brain to thinking that those thoughts are just thoughts I was recently diagnosed with ocd and it’s cause me to so many compulsions but they eventually got worse so in order for me to stop them completely I just have to simply,like you said,live life!

[@knarfex]

I know this is an old video, but you are a life saver! I have so many bad days and your videos help me alot😊 Keep it going please.

[@boneboysmusic2550]

I’m commonly having these thoughts and almost always they are violent and mostly involve people I would never hurt and made me wonder if I myself were mentally I’ll but just knowing doing nothing helps makes me feel way better and not isolated

[@colincampbell7227]

I’m the exact same man, been dealing with this for about 4 months now although the thoughts will change every so often about different things, but the thoughts of hurting people I love give me the most anxiety as it’s something I would never do, it makes me feel like the lowest person on earth, hope your doing good👍🏼

[@patti.untouchedbytrauma]

You are not your thoughts❤stressed brain can do this and you need to respond with compassion and love or indifference

[@simranpathak-vb8nl]

a loved one once called me characterless whom i trust more than myself then doing some silly things which really made me feel m a donkey they are just continously trying to test me if m actually good for them but it putted me in self doubts and i felt so scared of my ownself thnks alot man your video helped me alot i was having a right approch to fesolve this issue even before your video but u made me more confident 😊😊

[@Persei1]

Great video and very recognizable. That thumbnail distresses me.

[@maskedhooded4553]

Thank you I'm starting to realise I'm not alone 🙏

[@Notsofunnychef]

It's so good to know that you aren't the only one. I didn't drive for years because I would have thoughts of crashing on purpose! But I've got a driving test booked soon Or what if I hurt someone. You really make sense in what you say I'm going to give it a try. 🙌🏻

[@krishnakumar-dd1qk]

You literally changed my whole perspective. Thanks a lottt mate really

[@riverhooson638]

I keep getting these thoughts mostly at night sometime I would watch like a horror movie and then I would think that it would be me in that situation but it's awful to think about at night so I'm glad I saw this video cause you saved the day

[@muminjonmirzoev9316]

I never comment on videos but this one of the best things I’ve ever heard. Thank you

[@anishabux8507]

Yess please do one on indistinct brain chatter and racing thoughts which mean absolutely nothing 😵‍💫 and then cause the what if I'm crazy thoughts lol

[@aytanabbasova454]

I am really grateful that I met channel like this, now I am getting better and undestand what is going on. But I am still somehow dealing with it, like I should make myself sure, remind myself that I have OCD and doubt to keep calm...

[@hueso5071]

What are some signs that someone is starting to recover? I’ll have days that I feel perfectly fine , others not so much. A therapist had told me I stress myself to much and that is what has caused my intrusive thoughts. Slowly but surely I’m trying not to take any stress to serious.

[@Krissy1111111]

Wow I came to search on KZbin for my problem and it hasn't disappointed as usual! I thought it was a CPTSD thing and it's probably related, and I knew I had other OCDs, but it never occurred to me that these thoughts are OCDs! And they're not just thoughts, they're feelings. I have a phobia of biology and I feel all sorts of unpleasant things, sharp things hurting me in my most vulnerable places! It doesn't feel like I can handle them anymore and it's definitely counterintuitive to invite them to stay, but I'm willing to try anything! Thank you

[@cindydepp222]

Thank you Nate! You have no idea how much this video helps.

[@billscannell93]

They are like a scratched CD that keeps skipping. They develop over time until there are whole intricate structures of them, combined with compulsions to keep checking certain things over, and over, and over... (I used to have all sorts of facial, muscular and vocal tics, but I managed to will most of those away because they were so embarrassing. The disorder just expresses itself differently now, though.) I often remind myself of that guy on that old show who kept a bunch of plates spinning at the same time; I run from one worry to the other, knowing the whole time the entire thing is B.S. No one I know understands why I have been so unproductive over the years, but it is hard to do anything when you are at constant war with your own brain! I have to pump myself up and give myself little pep talks to even go out in public. Honestly, I would trade anything in the whole world for some peace of mind. I don't mean to be gloomy. It is just the damndest thing. It sucks, and I am alone with it, because no one in my family understands it, or even wants to. They are all scared of mental illness and try to brush it under the rug, while blaming me for being a lazy party animal (what a joke) and a leech, because I have long been unemployed and drink too much. I honestly wish I could trade the disorder in for some obvious physical ailment, because people understand those, and have some sympathy for them. Oh well, that's my KZbin venting for the day.

[@porksoda2342]

My friend. U. R. Not. Alone.

[@threeamstories]

Thank you Nathan! This video really changed my perspective on unwanted repeated thoughts I'm having. I'm starting to believe that we are humans and its okay to have these thoughts.let them stay there, right? :) You are a good soul,Nathan.❣️

[@ocdandanxiety]

Wonderful! Glad it was helpful to you.

[@Verilions]

Thank you so much, all of the thoughts I’ve been having have been just decimated my life and the things I do every day I’m so grateful that people like you are talented and helpful enough to make these informal if it weren’t for you I was going to probably have some type of crisis!

[@vladimirgeorgiev5462]

Great video man ! Very helpfull ! I am having intrusive thoughts for more than a month now and it feels pretty scary !

[@ocdandanxiety]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Experilandscape]

Thank you i love the frog in the background too

[@amiegoulet4165]

Love your videos, would love another about illness anxiety disorder if possible :) Seems to be where I have become stuck

[@justinvandeloo9646]

This video literally made me understand myself so much more I struggle with habitual and of that, and I literally fix it and perseverate on them so much and I literally feel red in the face, and I literally start sweating when I think about them.

[@drshaunmurphy9250]

I am a religious person,,,I was extremely suffering,,this really helped me Thanks

[@GoatTalkUnlimitedInc.]

How r u feeling

[@keithphillips1234]

Thanks!

[@willnel6849]

Great video. Thank you for the tips, you described what happens to me, I cancel often things, ( not buying stuff for exemple), when I meet a situation that triggers my thoughts, I guess avoidance is the opposite of what I have to do.

[@ocdandanxiety]

You got it!