Obsessions, Intrusions, & Rumination, Oh My!

I wanted to leave a little bit of psychoeducation here about three words that are often used together. They are similar, and distinct.

Obsessive thoughts are a hallmark of OCD. Intrusive thoughts and rumination often come along for the ride, but they can be a feature of other conditions as well. I think what I want to highlight most here is that most people- even without diagnosed anxiety- experience intrusive thoughts or ruminate at times. The difference is that these experiences are not as ‘sticky’ as they are for someone with a diagnosed condition. The thoughts tend to come and go as opposed to staying for a long while and causing a big disruption in one’s life.

When the thoughts ARE more clinical therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure and response prevention, medication- or both can be helpful.

Wishing you a wonderful day!

Leah