Understanding the OCD Loop
A simple guide to how OCD patterns get stronger
🌪️ What are Obsessions?
Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that feel distressing and sticky.
They often go against your values or what you believe — and that’s exactly what makes them so scary.
❗Example:
“What if I accidentally harm someone?”
“Did I really lock the door?”
“Am I a bad person for thinking this?”
🔁 What are Compulsions?
Compulsions are actions (physical or mental) we do to reduce the distress caused by obsessions.
They offer temporary relief — but end up reinforcing the fear long-term.
✅ Example Compulsions:
- Checking things over and over
- Mentally reviewing events
- Avoiding certain people/places
- Repeating words or prayers
- Asking for reassurance
🔄 How the Cycle Works
- Obsession → A scary thought shows up
- Distress → It triggers anxiety, shame, or fear
- Compulsion → You do something to feel “safe” again
- Temporary Relief → Anxiety fades for now
- Reinforcement → Your brain learns that you need the compulsion to feel okay
- 🌀 Cycle repeats, often getting stronger
🚧 The Problem:
The more you do the compulsion, the more your brain believes the obsession was dangerous.
Even though you’re trying to feel better, the compulsions feed the OCD loop.
🌱 The Way Out:
- Learn to sit with the discomfort (even just a little!)
- Practice Response Prevention aka resisting the compulsion
- Over time, your brain learns that the threat isn’t real
- This helps weaken the cycle and reduces anxiety in the long run
🛠️ With the Right Tools & Support…
You can learn to stop feeding the OCD monster and start taking back control.