How to Deal With Obsessive Thinking

Obsessive thinking can come in the form of OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) or what some are calling Pure-O - obsessive thinking without the compulsions. Whatever the case may be, for some people this kind of obsessive thinking can quickly become a way of life, often to the point that it takes over our life. Thoughts just seem to become stuck in our minds and they replay like a broken record. Learn to identify when this thought process begins so that you can take control of it!

Things You'll Need

• self-discipline
• will power

Instructions

1. 

   Realization is the first step in gaining control over obsessive thinking. One must be able to identify and realize when the thought process is getting out of hand.

2. 

   Once you find yourself obsessing over a given issue, stop yourself immediately and begin to observe your thought process. You may find it necessary to record your thoughts on paper. At this point you could become surprised at how often you are slipping into a bad thought process.

3. Maybe negative thinking has become an obsession for you and maybe you have thought negatively for as long as you can remember. If you find yourself thinking negatively stop and ask yourself "Is this really true what I'm thinking?" Think about what you know to be true and compare that to your negative thought. Immediately replace the negative thought with something positive.

4. Some people have problems leaving the house due to the fact that they cannot remember if they unplugged the iron, hot rollers, oven, etc... In situations like this where it involves turning something off, it is necessary to start making mental notes of things that are being done as they are done. Write it down if necessary. While standing in front of the oven, turn it off, say to yourself "Now I am turning this oven off, I see myself doing it, I see that it is now off, I'm OK."

5. Remember that most obsessive thinking also involves doubting. That is why OCD is also called "the doubting disease". When needing to check things over and over again, realize the fact that you are actually doubting yourself when you feel the need to recheck. By beginning to stop and take mental notes of what you have already done, you can begin to convince yourself not to recheck. Remember, checking and rechecking is a known symptom of OCD.

6. Don't put yourself down because you are thinking this way. Old habits are hard to break. You might find yourself making notes more than you would like, but keep doing it. If you have to replace a thousand negative thoughts with positive, just do it. Pretty soon that will become habit instead.

7. Identify your triggers. Determine the best possible reaction to them and keep this in mind. In addition, it may be necessary to remove the trigger from your life, if it is affecting your well-being and sanity.

8. It may be necessary for you to receive counseling from a trained professional to determine if there are some deep rooted issues causing your obsessive thinking patterns.

9. 

   Keep an open mind about taking medication for your condition. There are many options available to help you get back on track.