Brain Hack for OCD & Anxiety

The Brain Hack for Anxiety and OCD is designed to respond to what naturally occurs in the brain when we are triggered by a fearful thought, cue, memory or sensation.
First, DO YOU NEED HELP FOR OCD & ANXIETY?
👉🏼 If you are tired of your OCD and need help treating it with ERP so that you can feel better, I can help you.
Find out more about my course for OCD here:
paigepradko.com/ocd.
👉🏼 Here is a link to a FREE SELF ASSESSMENT for OCD:
www.paigepradko.com/ocdquiz
👉🏼 Here is a GIFT for you. A PDF for The Top 10 Things to Know to Practice ERP for OCD, Phobias & Anxiety:
www.paigepradko.com/erp
Our brains are wired to respond to fearful threats immediately by activating our fight/flight or freeze response for survival. That is that rush of adrenaline you feel when you hear a loud noise or have a sudden stop or close call in a car. Our brains are designed to overreact, and then settle down relatively quickly when our cortex, our thinking brain, sends a message to our amygdala that everything is fine and there is no danger.
But, what happens if we send fearful thoughts, instead of calming ones to the amygdala? It only makes sense that our amygdala would continue to activate our sympathetic nervous system, keeping us in fight or flight, a highly anxious arousal state.
This video demonstrates a brain hack for anxiety and OCD that I call the “I. A.M.” technique. This technique combines an incidental exposure or ERP with mindfulness. “I. A.M.” is an acronym for Identify, Allow, Mindfully connect to the Moment, and Move On. It works as a Brain Hack by interrupting the anxiety and fear cycle by:
Identify: the first fear, the first Whoosh as Anxiety or OCD
Allow: the anxiety, fearful thoughts and sensations
Mindfully: Connect to the Moment you are living
Move On: to what you were doing before
Please let me know if you what you think about the
I. A.M. technique and if you have tried it.
Here is a short playlist where you can learn more about Exposure Therapy
• Exposure Therapy | Bas...
#PaigePradko, #OCDwithPaige, #CalmSeriesforAnxiety, #OCD, #Anxiety, #ExposureTherapy, #ERP, #ExposureandResponsePrevention
Please feel free to follow me at the social media sites below:
/ paigepradkotherapy
/ paige.pradko.therapy
/ paigepradko
www.paigepradko.com/
Please comment below and feel free to ask me any questions. If you would like your question considered on an upcoming Q & A video, please let me know. Thank you for helping me spread mental health help and education.
Until next time...I will see you in session,
Paige
(Although Paige Pradko is a licensed psychotherapist, the views expressed on this video and this KZbin channel including comments or any related content should not be taken for medical, psychological or psychiatric advice. Any clients mentioned are fictional clients and any resemblance to actual persons or events is purely coincidental. Always contact your physician and mental health provider before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health.)
Music:
Epidemicsounds.com
Caracal by Leah Ryder
Edited by Amy at Twin Suns Studio LLC

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼SELF ASSESSMENT for OCD: www.paigepradko.com/ocdquiz 👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼 This is a really helpful PDF: The Top 10 Things to Know to Practice ERP for OCD, Phobias & Anxiety: www.paigepradko.com/erp 👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼 Learn how to do ERP the right way: OCD course www.paigepradko.com/ocd 👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼 Coupon Code for 10% Savings on Course for my KZbin Subscribers YTTENOFF 👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼 Contact Paige at www.paigepradko.com

[@maryl.6087]

I have to say, that triggers definitely don’t always stay triggers! The brain is able to learn new stuff and overwrite old information for sure. I have had OCD my entire life and it is possible to recover fully. Triggers won’t always trigger you if you focus on acceptance and train living with uncertainty. It takes time but it is possible!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you for sharing, Ella.🙏🏼❤️

[@yasharora2261]

You don't have OCD now you are living a free life please tell me

[@bintedildar8755]

Can u please tell me how you recovered

[@veronicamontes4699]

You have no idea how much your videos have helped me and helped keep the calmness. Anytime I feel anxiety knocking on my door, I turn to you! You and your wonderful videos! Thank you, Paige!!! 😇😇😇

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Veronica. Thank you for sharing that. It makes me feel great to know the videos are helping people. 🙏❤️

[@louiserasmus6568]

This is already helping me a lot, and you actually don't "do" anything, just a plan for when something happens. Thanks Paige.

[@jeffbyrnes3686]

I have found using mindfulness - listening to your senses, has been an excellent tool to deal with checking ocd thoughts and urges.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, I agree. Thank you for commenting 🙏❤️

[@RoxanaRoxana-rw4mh]

Fantastic !Thank you !

[@MrAug80]

Hiya Paige, I’m Paul I’m enjoying your KZbin channel. Your videos are really helpful and interesting. I have suffered from OCD since I was about 10. I got awful intrusive thoughts in my early teens that I wanted missing children to come to harm. It was really awful. I read all these awful stories in the newspapers and all these frightening thoughts cycled in my head that I couldn’t stop.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Paul. That must have been so frightening to not understand what was happening when you had intrusive thoughts as a kid. Intrusive thoughts are horrible, but, are actually meaningless and have nothing to do with who you are as a person. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@MrAug80]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy thanks Paige. I feel a whole lot better to read your reply. My mind is more settled these days but I still get the odd frightening flare up.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, unfortunately flare ups can happen from time to time. The I. A.M. technique can help you when you notice that first “whoosh” of anxiety. 😊

[@hannahross8616]

This was so well explained 👏

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you 🙏

[@Mike-vl2ji]

Hi Paige thank you so much for replying to my question, what you described is definitely me, I was actuality very relieved in a way, wow this thing is real, I'm not nuts :). I will definitely take your advice on board about what do. You are wonderful the way you help so many people, I live in Australia, and its hard to get help here about these topics, so thanks again. Cheers Mike

[@april82daisies]

So good. Thank you for this!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you 🙏❤️

[@yuliz8650]

I love you so much doc !!! Your videos helped me a lot !

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Yuli. Thank you for watching and commenting. I am so happy to hear that the videos are helping you.❤️

[@crisgaring279]

Your voice is really relaxing. Great videos!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you, Cris.🙏❤️

[@johnoconnell3139]

I love your videos just so grounding I get so much peace from them I just love the way you explain things thanks

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thanks for watching and commenting, John. I am so glad you find the videos helpful. 🙏😊

[@pegahzarei8433]

awesome succinct and comprehensive information! than you!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you Pegah, I appreciate it 🙏❤️

[@trustlife23]

You are really good at giving advice and tips on how to deal with anxiety. Very informative as always.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you. Glad I can be of help. 😊

[@OHOBGA]

Great video. Really useful technique.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I am glad you like it😊

[@Alhamdulilah6873]

Thank you so much ❤

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You're welcome 😊

[@christineweber7656]

Thank you!! You're a fantastic teacher.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you, Christine 🙏❤️

[@shellsoto1771]

Love your videos

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you 🙏

[@shellsoto1771]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy no thank you, I no longer have a job and going to therapy is a luxury. They pandemic has not been easy for a lot of us, your sources make me feel like your talking to me, and understand me to the t. I’ve watched a lot of different therapists and psychologists on KZbin and your one of my top 2 fav. Your helping a lot of people who desperately need it. 🙏🏼

[@tonyatkinson4496]

Thank you.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You’re welcome 🙏❤️

[@slicks8577]

Your a great woman doing a wonderful service 👏

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you Ricky. 🙏❤️

[@snobunni4808]

this has helped me so much i want to thank you very very much

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I'm so glad! You are very welcome 🙏❤️

[@Totallyking]

Thank you so much. You are an invaluable resource for everyone suffering with such things no matter how long they have been dealing with it.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you for sharing that. I really appreciate it.🙏❤️

[@educationcentre8383]

Thank you for your videos

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Glad you like them! My pleasure!

[@isaacdarius8440]

Thank you, Pradko Your videos change life

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you ❤

[@superbreastman]

Thank you so much Paige. I am trying hard to apply your precious teachings. I have been struggling with GAD and depression for quite some time now and rumination and obsessive/intrusive thoughts are always knocking at my door. I keep on repeating I.A.M. and I hope to see some light again in this dark period of life. You are a strong anchor to which I often grasp. Your help is so well appreciated and your videos are always on air... a hug from Italy. Ciao!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Lorenzo. I am so sorry that you are struggling with GAD and depression and intrusive thoughts. I can tell you are a lovely person and I hope you know that you are not alone and I have compassion for what you are going through. Do me a little favor, place your hand on your heart and tell yourself that you matter and that you are going to take care of yourself and guide you through this storm and keep yourself safe. Thank you for sharing. Ciao! 🙏❤️

[@ryankillian8983]

Hi Paige, I found your channel over the weekend and must of watched at least 10 of your videos lol. I can’t tell you how grateful I am to have found your channel And to find a professional in this field. I recently started a new job from home and it is a big change from my last job. I usually feel some form of anxiety when changing from one job to another, but this is probably the biggest hit I’ve ever taken. Even when I’m not working it’s all I’m thinking about and I’m always afraid I’m going to make a mistake or a client is going to find out that I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m two months into the job and still feeling this way. Thank you for making these videos and I’d love to see more that concentrate on coming into a new job and how to handle it if you haven’t already done so. thank you again for doing what you do you have no idea how much this is helping me and probably so many others

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Rye. First of all, congratulations on your new job. That’s awesome news! I do not know of anyone who is not anxious when starting a new job. I think it takes people several months to feel like they know what they are supposed to be doing. So, my first piece of advice is to really normalize this change for yourself. Everyone gets anxious….it will all settle down in time. The second thing is to remind yourself that we only get anxious if we care about something. That means you care about this job and that’s a good thing. Nothing worse than working at a job that you don’t care about. And the third thing is that it helps if we lower our expectations on ourselves. It doesn’t mean we don’t care…but, if we lower our expectations, we become less anxious. Here is a video where I talk about that kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4K2Z4WahsmUaKM

[@paromitadesarkar1677]

Thank you Ms. Pradko, for creating these useful videos on ocd and how to manage it. it has really really helped me. I am grateful for you. take care Ma'am.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you…it makes me happy that my videos are helping you. 🙏❤️

[@pradeepdatta2168]

I've seen your videos for the first time. You are fantastic , you explain everything so well.Thks.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thanks and welcome 😊

[@shlomifnunu7473]

thanks for amazing information! videos like that and other CBT OCD videos always trigger so hard my OCD all time because i so want to help myself so i obsessive on videos, i like this ERP i practice with myself a long time, i most say when i watch i get anxitey so i keep watch more even when its trigger OCD. this hardest for let anxitey emotion allow

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Yes, sometimes videos and articles can be triggering. Yet, as an ocd therapist, I do believe that it is important to practice being triggered, yet acting as if you are not. In this way, your brain has new safety learning opportunities that will ultimately help you to be less reactive.

[@neon.purple]

This lady is an angel ❤️

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thank you 🙏❤️

[@luvchangrani963]

You are the best

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

🙏❤️

[@kristymarie6065]

Thank you

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You’re welcome, Kristy. Thank you for watching and commenting🙏❤️

[@kitemett]

Great explanation of why the triggers fire in the first place.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thanks. I appreciate it 😊

[@myahkgatsby7578]

This video is ao great! I feel that a technique that involves an acronym could be so helpful because during the anxiety attacks it is so hard to remember what to do. But if you have something so simple as "I.AM" in your mind it might be much easier to know what to do. Will definitely try it.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thanks. I love using Acronyms when explaining a technique. I must be the Queen of Acronyms. You will hear a lot of them in my videos. I have a great one you will hear next week. I hope you will remember I. A.M. next time you have a whoosh of anxiety. 😊

[@andreacervenkova9005]

I love that calming atmosphere of your videos, Paige. I can totally relate to what you describe. It happens to me often that I am completely relaxed, then I have an intrusive what-if thought pop out of blue, then I feel that whoosh of anxiety and then I start questioning the meaning of that thought. So can the trigger be a what-if thought as well?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, absolutely…I think the what-if thought often triggers that whoosh of adrenaline. And, I am glad that you find my videos are calming. 😊

[@MultiMagnumforce]

Thanks for the woosh- amygdala feeling explanation.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You’re welcome ☺️. Whoosh seemed to be the best word that I could come up with. 😂

[@MultiMagnumforce]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy It's a good word to describe the Amygdala sending the feeling of a woosh with a thought, image, urge etc. Thank for everything you do with OCD.

[@maggiefernandez7323]

Awsome video Paige as always!! I sometimes think of the word Refuse when I'm about to ruminate. Is that ok or is that still avoiding and ruminating? Your acronym is amazing thank you!

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Thanks Maggie. I think using the word refuse, is your version of Identifying the anxiety and/or obsessive thoughts. Once you identify that first “whoosh” of anxiety, you know to not react or give significance to the thoughts and feelings. Just allow them...and mindfully connect to the moment and then move on. Sometimes people have to practice this over and over again before the brain learns that this is nothing to be afraid of in those thoughts.

[@maggiefernandez7323]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy yes that's exactly it for me I recognize that anxiety and immediately remind myself to refuse and slowly it goes away. I accept and allow as much as possible. Some days are hard with ocd they just feel so real and almost convincing me that this is the day I will give in and ocd wins but thankfully that doesn't and will never happen! Thank you Paige!

[@loquacious_lisa]

But what if something is wrong in my body and I just ignore it and be like ‘it’s just anxiety’ 😢 it is HELL living like this 😓😓😓😓

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Lisa. I am sorry that you are dealing with this. It sounds like you may have health anxiety. Health anxiety is a form of ocd with a health theme and it can be horrible and very challenging to treat. Here are some resources for you: Health anxiety assessment www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz OnLine Course: Rapid Recovery from Health Anxiety www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety

[@tinajohnson5685]

Thank you for your videos. I am 50 and either perimenopausal or menopausal (I’m not sure b/c I am still taking a low dose birth control). For almost 2 wks I have had palpitations daily. I’ve had them since the 7th grade, but off and on. I’ll have them a few days and then they’ll stop for a long time. My dad had an MI at 46 and died from one at age 57 and this is CONSTANTLY on my mind, esp when these palps are happening. They scare me so bad and I feel like my quality of life has drastically decreased. Even when I’m not having them, I am thinking about “when is the next one coming.” And of course, I know that anxiety brings them on. I have a hard time calming down , though. Your videos, along with the KZbin channel York Cardiology, help me to calm down which seems to slow down or eliminate the palpitations for a little while. I see a cardiologist nov 27. I know I’ll have a holter (sp?) and some tests and that makes me nervous too lol. Also, the position at which I lie down or bending over at the waist seems to bring them on. Any ideas on that? Sorry this is so long.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Tina. It is understandable that palpitations would scare you because of the way you lost your dad. And of course, it is a good idea for all of us with any cardiac concerns to have testing done. But, once you have the results of the tests, and if you are given the news that you are in good health, you will want to listen to that news. Palpitations are normal for many people and you can learn to accept them and experience them without fear. Also, when people bend over at the waist, they can kink their blood flow to their legs and this can cause your heart to react in it’s attempt to get blood flow to your legs. It is a natural response. You may also notice that when you go from lying down to sitting or standing, you may feel a little light headed for a moment. Your heart has to beat a little harder to get blood flow to the head when changing position. Our hearts are always reacting to our movements and positions and this is normal and natural and means that you have a healthy heart.

[@tinajohnson5685]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy I am so sorry, but I am just now seeing your reply to my message! My KZbin notifications were not turned on :( Thank you soooo much for taking the time to reply to me. I currently have a Zio heart monitor on. He prescribed it for 2 weeks and I can remove it this coming Thursday and mail it in. In Jan I will have an echo and a coronary calcium score. Your reply really helped calm me tonight and to give me reassurance. Thank you for your selflessness in trying to help/teach us ❤️

[@gpx922]

Easier said than done but this was still helpful thank you. OCD is very addictive.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes…isn’t all therapy easier said than done. Even though ERP techniques are “easy” in concept, they are very challenging to do. You have to be determined, committed, motivated and practice self-compassion as well.

[@amylever5687]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy u

[@deerblue9070]

This is so helpful! Acceptance or staying mindful seems to be the most effective way when it comes to anxiety. At least it is calming. I really like your videos and wanted to ask you a question. Do you have any advice on how not to take things personally? Sometimes people who genuinely love us say things like "oh what you did wasn't so smart" or "damn, you're sensitive" etc. And these remarks are not mean spirited, just things said without much intention. However, I tend to take them very personally. And I really don't want to because then I overreact or keep sulking for a few hours. It's time and emotionally exhausting plus afterwards it's easier to be angry at oneself for overreacting... So do you have any advice on how to stay more focused in that moment and to let it go?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Oh yes, don’t we all need to improve our skills and awareness of not taking things so personally. This is something that we can really make progress at, but then slip, and find ourselves doing it again. I think what helps people is to really understand what our triggers are. If you look back on what you took personally and perhaps over reacted to, you will notice they brought up similar feelings in you. We overreact and take things personally when we are triggered by past hurts. Our brains recognize the feelings right away. It is very difficult to catch unless you are really working on it. I know my triggers and I try my best to remind myself that I am hurting and sensitive because of the past, not the present trigger. Here are 2 videos that may help you. You may not have experienced “trauma”, but, if you feel like you are over reacting, there is something in your past that is being triggered. It takes a great deal of awareness in the moment to catch ourselves. Thanks for such a great question. Here are the videos on emotional triggers kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYoHjeb7o6g2CX5KZpYuV1xE

[@lakebay2230]

Thank you for your videos! Your Agoraphobia playlist helped me to drive out of my 2 mile “safety” radius for the first time in 4 months! The two things you said that were the most helpful to me were: inviting the anxiety and external distractions. I have shared your videos with many others! Please keep making them 🙏

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I am so proud of you. I know how hard it is and how much work and determination it takes. Keep challenging yourself and begin to loosen your grip on the steering wheel and allow the anxiety to be there. You will get better and better at tolerating the anxiety as you progress. Great job and thank you for sharing the videos.

[@georgia3465]

So glad you are better! I’m going through the same thing. Which playlist are you referring too?

[@ninjazxd]

What videos did you watch? I can't drive more than a mile by myself due to agoraphobia. I used to be a diesel mechanic and a truck driver and now I am afraid to drive alone. If my wife is with me I can drive anywhere.

[@lakebay2230]

@@ninjazxd I am very sorry to hear that. I am back to driving normally now. These are the videos I watched. You’re going to have to engage in exposure and facing the anxiety. A panic attack cannot harm you. It actually makes you more focused and hyperaware. Pull over if you have to, collect yourself and keep pressing on. Tell the anxiety to “do it’s worst.” Invite it and even get angry with it. kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYoJdExc0g8zVZuekW2zhGG7

[@larrybacheller7832]

Thanks so much

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You’re welcome, Larry.🙏😊

[@larrybacheller7832]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy I have a question. Would you mind answering it for me?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I will do my best. I am not notified other than someone’s first comment on a video. It may be best if you leave me a message on paigepradko.com

[@DogMommy.]

I wish I could have someone like you help me with these bad thoughts I have 😫

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I am sorry you are having intrusive thoughts. If you ever need more help, I have an online course and support group where I take you step-by-step what to do to recover and sustain your recovery. www.paigepradko.com/ocd

[@DogMommy.]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you so much

[@Mike-vl2ji]

Hi Paige thank you for your wonderful videos, when you mentioned "triggered by fearful thoughts" made me think, are False memory OCD or Real event OCD a real thing, and If so how would you deal with these obsessive thoughts from the past. Thank you again for your videos they have helped me so much

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Mike. That’s a great question. When someone has real event ocd, they are often stuck in the rumination phase and what that event may mean about them as a person. They are lost in their mind and not at all connected to the moment they are living. The same strategy is used. Identify it as OCD or even Ruminating. Allow the thoughts to just float there in your brain somewhere. And then gradually shift your attention to what you are doing in your real physical life at that moment. Your mind may still hold those thoughts and memories, but you are shifting your attention to the here and now….and moving on. 😊

[@falconxlc]

The CBT techniques really help! Thank you! With more of the country legalizing marijuana for rec/medical use, can you speak to the effectiveness or benefits, if any for anxiety/depression/panic? I've heard mix results and wanted to know your thoughts on the matter in a future video. Thank you again.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

That is a great suggestion. Thank you 🙏

[@ninjazxd]

I currently get treated for all this anxiety stuff and I have the panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD and health anxiety. My treatment is Lexapro and here and there counseling through the VA. I haven't been able to work since Feb 2022 due to the anxiety causes me to leave work and drive home but now it's full anxiety when I try to leave alone. Hopefully the VA figures something out since it's my only option since I don't have health insurance or income.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Charles. This is quite a coincidence because my specialties are : panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD and Health Anxiety. We were made for each other. Lol. You will want to sign up for my newsletter because those are the primary topics I cover there. I have a new course for panic that launches on Sunday. Send me a message on paigepradko.com so that I can tell you more. I am afraid you might not get a whole lot of specialized help from the VA, so hopefully I can supplement their help for you.

[@rdevalentin]

How about if your ruminations are about how to get rid of them? You can’t stop ruminating until you find a way to get rid of them because it disrupts too much your life, and the only way to know you found a way to get rid of them is when you’re finally able to stop ruminating. What happens if you don’t find a way to stop ruminating? You’re stuck in an endless loop. If I stop ruminating about a means to stop ruminating, I may miss an opportunity to find what I’m looking for. This thought is too disturbing, so I keep on ruminating. You’re right, the best way to escape that endless loop is to favor the “slow route to the cortex” if circumstances allow. As far as possible, I try not to let disturbing thoughts dictate me the way forward. I let, instead, my judgment handle that responsibility.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

It is a difficult task to change a mental habit. Thank you so much for your comment. 🙏❤️

[@rdevalentin]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy I find changing a mental habit like ruminating more difficult when I'm under pressure to change it (for instance, when ruminating prevents me from mowing an overgrown lawn or correcting student exams in time). I find it easier to stop ruminating before the pressure to do so mounts, when I have time to get accustomed to the reasonable risks associated with terminating a ruminating episode (it could be a critical error, who knows? Only the future can tell).

[@georgia3465]

See as Camille, I have anxiety and healthy anxiety and some more. I’m glad she was able to follow through with the tool and found success. When my attacks happened the fear of having them and dealing with the nasty sensations left me housebound. As for the health anxiety, I have health anxiety for myself but most recent i have health anxiety for my parents - it’s draining and I’m not doing well with it … would you apply this method? Or is there something even more ??

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Georgia. The I. A.M. method can be used for any unwanted thoughts or sensations, and yes, there is an entire process that I use when treating people with health anxiety regarding their own health and the health of others. If you are interested in more treatment help to feel better, you may be interested in taking my course called Rapid Recovery from Health Anxiety. You can read more about the course and register here: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.

[@pattysmith5924]

I really appreciate that you study Dr. Ledoux. I have not met too many people that really appreciate his work. The work of his team has been indeed ground breaking and outside of the status quo. Your video makes it a little unclear based on the language you use, but Dr. Ledoux does not support the idea of fear being thrusted upon us. His claim to fame is that in order to feel fear -- it is a conscience choice. He often wears the t-shirt "no self, no fear". This theory, which his team and lab has demonstrated, feelings of fear are at the conscience level. Your video here makes it seem like you get hit feelings of fear from two fronts (the amygdala and conscience telling the amygdala that yes, be scared).

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Patty. Thanks for pointing that out. I have nothing but respect for LeDoux’s work and have read a few of his books including Anxious. I am going to pull out his books and read more about what you mentioned. I find that interesting. Thank you 🙏

[@pattysmith5924]

​@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thanks for being so open and honest. He has several fascinating videos you can search where he gives presentations on this. The amygdala (and other brain areas) certainly do prepare your body for stressors and "fight or flight or freeze, etc" but he is very clear that "high road" conscience awareness allows you to feel and experience fear. Fear is not thrust upon you as it seems and feels. Dr Ledoux points out those without or damaged amygdala's still experience fear. This is actually wonderful news for OCD and anxiety sufferers because it demonstrates you have no control over thoughts, but you do have control of your reaction.

[@TelefonemasPodcast]

excelente

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Glad you like it 😊

[@barbbrunson3541]

Thank you so much for you videos. My question is, what happens when you just allow the anxiety but it doesn't pass and you just sit with constant anxiety or worry?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Barb. Good to see you here. When you do not respond to the anxiety or worry, you brain gets confused. This creates new learning in the brain that nothing bad happened when you did not respond to the anxiety. The brain stays a little confused for awhile because it still wants to be fearful and protect you if something is wrong. But, with repetition of not responding to the fear, the brain learns that you are safe and then the obsessions and worries and even bodily symptoms begin to decrease. Looking at the brain, we can actually see new neuropathways that were formed with these exposures.

[@renakmans3521]

I find it very difficult to do this or exposures while I’m trying to do a task like perform on my instrument. The OCD often pulls me away from my experience and I’m left with a subpar performance, or at least that’s what it feels like, as if I could’ve done better if it weren’t for the anxiety of OCD. That becomes a viscous cycle. Unfortunately I’m convinced now that I just have to suffer through it and hope for the best in terms of performance…sometimes meds help lesson anxiety.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Renak. It is difficult to fully engage in something when OCD is spiked. You just have to try your best to focus on your performance and do the best that you can. Try your best to not engage with it or check to see if it is there.

[@renakmans3521]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy ❤️

[@firstlastname904]

I have no thoughts; I only think about why I’m not thinking. Blank mind is the closest thing to describe it, really. I sometimes simulate conversations with other ppl in my head as a substitute for actual thoughts. I also get really bad ear worms; Ik most people get them but it’s chronic all the time for me. During that puberty stage, I had OCD-like compulsions. I did a ritual dance every night and would start over if my brain felt like it. Constantly raising my eyebrows: ended up getting weird looks from ppl. constantly locked and unlocked the door. Would list more but u get the idea. It’s weird cuz I’m 18 now and haven’t had any compulsions since then so I’m not sure if symptoms do that.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

It is common to wax and wane on ocd themes and compulsions. Your thoughts are more meta cognitions…meaning thoughts about thinking and why you’re not thinking. In a sense, that’s deep thinking. I wouldn’t worry about anything that isn’t bothering you, like “I have no thoughts”. Just let it be. Your brain may be busy with those ear worms. I can get a song stuck for days. The less you concern yourself with it, the better. 😊 .

[@firstlastname904]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy I’m not sure if this is related but I also have trouble initiating swallow reflex when eating especially while in a moving car. Short and long term memory issues. Can’t seem to process what anyone says and I have trouble articulating words. I know I should speak to a physician/psychiatrist but there’s a waiting period for new patients; I just turned 18 and stopped seeing my pediatrician. Need someone to vent to while I wait

[@firstlastname904]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy I’m not sure if this is related but I also have trouble initiating swallow reflex when eating especially while in a moving car. Short and long term memory issues. Can’t seem to process what anyone says and I have trouble articulating words. I know I should speak to a physician/psychiatrist but there’s a waiting period for new patients; I just turned 18 and stopped seeing my pediatrician. Need someone to vent to while I wait

[@MsMeAndMyCat]

Could work very well if there is no panic attack caused by exposure

[@sobaanmohammed3304]

2:06 So just to double check, the amygdala is "emotional" or reactive side and the cortex is the "rational" side? In some moments I feel like my thoughts really are true, maybe this time things are different and the danger IS actually real. Is this just the amygdala trying really hard to ensure survival? I find it difficult to defuse from my thoughts because i feel like my thoughts are intelligent, well reasoned and well informed. That does sound a bit big headed but it's true...

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, the amygdala is like the broken alarm that goes off constantly. It is rare that we actually have an immediate emergency. And, intrusive thoughts in ocd can confuse you and try to convince you that those thoughts are significant and important and true. Don’t fall into that trap. Our thoughts are not significant unless we decide to assign some kind of meaning to them. Trust what you have always known about yourself to be true according to your past actions and values, do not trust an unwanted, intrusive thought that is uncomfortable and distressing.

[@surayaomar4711]

Hye,I started this technique yesterday,and today is my second day, ive been suffering religious ocd (tend to repeat my prayer) for years , how long at least i should wait to see difference n result?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

That’s a great question. People have quite different intensities of their intrusive thoughts. Some people practice the I. A.M. hundreds of times the first day, and less and less as the days go on. Other people only need to use it on occasion. Everyone is different. But, the more that you just allow the thought to float in the background and shift and focus your attention to what you are doing without saying the prayer response, the faster you will see results. Expect to see results within a few days to a week.

[@samantechsamy9168]

hi ..i cant find good therapy in my area and thanks for your help..can you explain me about erp in offensive thaughts to god(( sometimes inside offensive talk) ..because i dont know what is exposure in this case ..i mean i cant repeat cussing to god its make it worse..thank you

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Samy. You do not need to do or say anything that you do not want to say to do ERP for Religious Scrupulosity OCD. Your goal in your ERP is to learn to tolerate the uncertainty about whether or not you have offended god. Of course none of us really know if we have offended god, right? We all have to learn to live with this uncertainty. For most religious obsessions, the fears center around that we may have offended god or be evil because of our thoughts or inconsistencies of our actions. Typically, people with Religious or Moral Scrupulosity tend to try to live in a perfectionistic way, yet fear that they will fall short. Without knowing your history in detail, I am only speaking here in generalities. Please take this as general advice that may not specifically apply to you. Try you best to identify your obsessive thoughts and also your compulsions. Many of your compulsions will be in your head, like trying to neutralize a thought, or doing something extra good, or analyzing your thoughts, or praying the thought away or praying in a perfect way to name a few. When doing ERP, you will expose yourself to your obsessive, intrusive thoughts (most people do this by using scripts), and the response prevention part is NOT doing any of your compulsive behaviors. Using a script would be a planned imaginal ERP exposure. You could use the I. A.M. method for incidental (in the moment) exposures. An example mild script for someone with Religious Scrupulosity might be: “I choose to believe in a loving, forgiving god that knows my true intentions. I am allowing the ocd story or image about.....(fill in blank)...to stay in my head as long as it wants. I hope this does not mean I am offending god, but there is no way for me to know this. I will tolerate this uncertainty. I will not do any of my mental or physical compulsions when these thoughts come into my mind. I will allow the thoughts to remain as long as they want without trying to push them away. I will keep doing this without any of my rituals because this is what I need to do to overcome ocd.” Here is a playlist that will help you. Check out the videos on Moral Scrupulosity, Scripts for ERP, Mental Compulsions, Stop Intrusive Thoughts. kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYqKvEwlGXoRPDu_8blhbaq- I hope this helps you.

[@samantechsamy9168]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy thanks ❤️ thats very helpful and i wish best for you...❤️❤️❤️

[@kimberlysherman8703]

I am stuck in an obcessive thought pattern of how I'm going to get through this and ways to get thru this. It causes anxiety and depression and frustration. I try not to but it's all I can think about. Any advice

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Kimberly. Some thought patterns are solvable and some are not. If you are working on a solvable problem, then thinking about it can be helpful. If it is an “unsolvable” problem, then yes, the I. A.M. technique can be used for thoughts, bodily sensations, images and emotions. It is even helpful for people in chronic pain.

[@darienravin]

how do you overcome fear and ohibia of taking blood pressure? im so scared to take it and my doctor has said its fine but i feel the urge every day to check it aand if i dont i wonder all day long if im ok or going to be ok but then it scare me to take it but the ocd thought wont leave me alone and my mind wont just believe that im ok.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Kari. I am so sorry that you are dealing with that. What you are describing is health anxiety ocd. It is an ocd cycle and I can help you if you wish to work on it. Health anxiety ocd spiked so much during the pandemic that I decided to record what I do in therapy so that I could help people. If you are interested, here is more information on my course called: Rapid Recovery from Health Anxiety www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.

[@darienravin]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy hi thank you for responding. Unfortunately im not able to afford this right now because i am out of work due to this disability

[@andreacervenkova9005]

Is ruminating over the "accuracy" And credibility of the obsessive thoughts helpful in regards to recovery?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Unfortunately, rumination is unhelpful and is often the compulsion that feeds the ocd.

[@andreacervenkova9005]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you. I'm asking because I've been told to compare evidence that suggests the thoughts Is true vs. False, but I think this Is a waste of my time And energy. I have already sacrified enough time And energy to OCD And Now I want to Focus on Real life, not those silly obsessions

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, I agree with you.

[@chrispeers4111]

What if this is constant? Like you can’t break it whatsoever even during distraction? Had rumination for years since being young I’m 25 now it’s usually always been the same but disappeared for a while I have ocd, anxiety, depression and awaiting ADHD diagnosis which would explain a lot but it feels like it’s branded into my brain from being very young and I can’t remove it

[@AJ-fk3zl]

I’ve been suffering with depersonalisation on and off for about 3/4 years. It’s recently came back like 7/8 months ago. I have existential ocd, where I question purpose of life and how others don’t seem real etc. then I’m not a suicidal person or anything but the fear of losing my mind and that being the result scares me. Are all these thoughts common/normal to have? And is this the best way to overcome it as it’s all linked with anxiety? Thank you

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

There are several methods to treat existential ocd with a core fear of losing your sanity. I prefer ERP. The I. A.M. method is one type of ERP that focus heavily on response prevention. I do recommend the I. A.M. method for what you are describing. I would also suggest combining it with imaginal worse case scenario scripts for more ERP. Here is a pdf that may help: The Top 10 Things you Need to Know to Practice ERP: Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Phobias and Anxiety www.paigepradko.com/erp

[@elissavow5112]

Hello. I have a nocturnal panic attack condition and I have horrible anxiety. Can you please give me some advice why I shouldn't be scared to go to bed? Please?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Elissa. I am so sorry that you are suffering with Nocturnal Panic. Here is a playlist for sleep anxiety and I have a video where I discuss nocturnal panic. kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYoq2g2GlxmYyjz2yg1L6gJ9

[@subeenagrover5618]

Paige, can people recover well from ocd or is it just giving sufferers false hope ?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

We treat OCD, we do not cure OCD. Perhaps one day we will find a way to do that. But for now, we treat it. It is possible to maintain your gains and stay in recovery and many people do.

[@DogMommy.]

Which kind of doctor or therapist I need to see for this and false memory OCD ? I feel like idk where to get help anymore.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

First, I am so sorry that you are struggling with this. This is treatable and you have a few options. The IOCDF.org has a list of qualified OCD therapists. Another option that is more affordable yet just as effective is taking my online course. I cover step-by-step how to treat False Memory OCD. www.paigepradko.com/ocd.

[@ericajones8041]

What is the difference between anxiety and OCD , or is it the same. I'm not sure which one I'm suffering from or maybe both. Thanks

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

OCD involves obsessive, unwanted thoughts or urges or sensations or images. Then, compulsions or rituals are preformed to attempt to calm oneself or “undue” the unwanted thoughts and feelings. Sometimes the compulsions can be mental compulsions like ruminating and trying to figure out if a doubt is a legitimate concern. Anxiety as in GAD, generalized anxiety can also include lots of rumination. However in anxiety like GAD, the worries are about lots of different things and frequency change based on the stressors of the day. In OCD, the worries are usually related to specific themes and topics. People can have both anxiety and OCD.

[@andreacervenkova9005]

Can OCD feel so Real that you actually become convinced that the obsession Is true?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Unfortunately, yes, it can feel that real. But, we have to remember that our thoughts are just mental activity and they are not facts and have no significance to who we are as people.

[@arjunmrao4039]

Baby Ollie is there in the Background.. watching your video now..

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Yes, Ollie agrees to be present, but, he usually turns away from the camera and goes to sleep.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I am wondering how you are doing, Arjun. I am hearing so much on the news about covid infections in India and hope you and your family are well.

[@arjunmrao4039]

Yes Madam, Soooo nice of you to enquire, Actually I wanted to write my opinion on the above video a couple of days back but was unable to do so owing to the CORONA Virus & the frantic activities that it has brought into our lives. In our state of Karnataka (India) alone, the no. of cases yesterday was 34,500. Almost complete lockdown now and from tommorow night 9pm and onwards, IT IS COMPLETE LOCKDOWN - COMPLETE SEALDOWN .... There are ambulances waiting outside hospitals to get in but hospitals are not allowing them in owing to shortage of beds and oxygen cylinders.. Quite a few of them are dying a slow death in the ambulance itself owing to overflowing hospitals & lack of recovery facilities. To watch the agony & sorrow of the relatives of these corona victims as they die a slow agonizing death right in front of their eyes, right in front of the hospital but being unable to do anything is really agonizing for us.. Both my parents are senior citizens, they have completed taking both the doses of the Corona Vaccine but THE VACCINE IS NOT FOOL PROOF, Its not absolute in providing immunity.. Therefore I am compelled to do the outside chores.. I wish I could write more but KZbin hates it when I write lengthy comments to you..Grocery Shops, milk booths, medical shops, hospitals, vegetable shops, police stations are open.. Rest everything is closed, sealed down.. Some pet shops are open since some pets are accustomed to eating only packaged food.. OLLIE'S FRIENDS here have no problem 😄

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

That is so terribly sad and horrible to hear that people cannot get the services that they need to save their lives. I cannot imagine the pain of their loved ones witnessing this and being unable to help. I am thankful that your parents have had the vaccine and hope that you have as well. The infection rate is high in my state, but, it seems that our hospitals are keeping up with the demand. Please keep yourself safe. I know the isolation is mentally difficult. Sending my prayers for wellness and full recovery to you and your family members and the people of India.🙏❤️

[@arjunmrao4039]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank You Madam, Thank You Soo Much.. I will keep you updated and write my comments wrt your this above video.. Thank You soooo much for your concern.. 👍😊Just now, a couple of hours back, we lost a BIG FILM PRODUCER in the Film Industry to the Corona Virus.. R I P.... You can google 'Ramu Film producer, Husband of Actress Malashree' and see for yourself madam.. Really Shocking News

[@kimberlysherman8703]

Will this work even if you can't identify the cause of the anxiety?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Sometimes the anxiety can be about “having anxiety” or feeling anxious. (I) Identify the anxiety or obsessive thought, (A) Allow it to float there in the background, (M) Shift your attention to something you can do in the moment and Move on. This may be repeated as many times as needed.

[@renoraines4695]

thats not how my ocd works, if i dont do a certain what i call habit i feel like something bad will happen, maybe not right at that moment but it tells me do it or i will get you sooner or later,so its better for me to do the crap instead of lay in bed awake worrying about it and not getting sleep i been like this for 35 years im not looking for a cure anymore i know its here til i pass on

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

There is no cure, but there is treatment. I want you to know that you are not alone. Most people with OCD have a similar core fear. It is torturous to be controlled by your thoughts. It sounds like you have found a way to reconcile living with the compulsions. There is nothing wrong with that at all. Wishing you well.

[@ThinkPositiveDude]

that's what ERP is for, the past is the past and nothing can be done about it and the future is uncertain and will remain so no matter how many times your brain tells you to do that compulsion, the goal is to enjoy today while being comfortable about not know what tmrw will bring

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

You’ve got it.

[@ThinkPositiveDude]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you for all you've done for the community Mrs. Pradko.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

It’s my pleasure. Truly. 🙏❤️

[@jessicamendez1285]

I have extreme health anxiety, and harm ocd, any tips?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Jessica. I am so sorry that you are experiencing these thoughts. I have many videos on health anxiety and on pure o ocd. With all ocd, I like to remind clients that the theme really does not matter. In fact the themes have a way of changing over time. We do not respond to the thoughts no matter what they are, because they are ocd thoughts. Here are a few playlists to help you. Health anxiety: kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYonn-zlZxzTRR8V4myEHgCY Pure O OCD kzbin.info/aero/PL1lUhuKpYUYqKvEwlGXoRPDu_8blhbaq- I hope they help you.

[@jessicamendez1285]

@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you, I just came from the hospital yesterday from anxiety and severe headache, I am having trauma from the hospital itself , and getting anxiety from it, I’m trying to cope and help these thoughts, they are leaving me restless.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I really do feel so sorry for you, Jessica. That sounds so traumatic. Remind yourself that you are whole, safe and healthy. You will do your best to not react to anxious thoughts that tell you otherwise. I hope you get some rest and are able to calm down. Here is a relaxation video I filmed on Lake Huron in Michigan. It helps me relax kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJbWc4iKhZqJhM0

[@karissans8209]

Am I able to book sessions with you via Telehealth ?

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Hi Karissa. Please send me a message on paigepradko.com

[@KennethNordin]

What is your role as a nutrition expert, or rather what is your education and what profession do you practice? It is important that when you receive information that you can trust it. You speak in a way that is very similar to a professional medicine man, pharmacologist or biochemist. Therefore, it is important to know what you are actually trained in and in which profession you work.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

I answered your question in your other post.

[@KennethNordin]

Non useless video,because it's all lots of ....well, she does not know what she talk about, and give a wrong explikation of the fear, fight and flight response. She is only half right, thats not enough in psychiatry field. And mindfulness is a very broad and dumb way to explain fear, anxiety and panic.

[@PaigePradkoTherapy]

Feel free to learn more about me at paigepradko.com. I am a board certified psychotherapist and an anxiety and OCD specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience treating people with anxiety disorders and OCD. Above and beyond my professional degrees, I have had the highest level of training available in the OCD field from the Behavior Therapy Training Institute from the International OCD Foundation.