Obsessive Disorder – 7 Helpful Tips for Handling Obsessions

Obsessive disorder is a condition where your worries and fears go beyond what's usually expected to the point that it severely affects your quality of life. In terms of intensity and frequency, obsessive disorder intrudes on your life and damages your relationships and personal well being.

But obsessive disorder can be managed. Whether you think you have the symptoms of obsessive disorder or feel you're simply a chronic worrier, the following tips could help you.

1. Accept it. The main symptoms of obsessive disorder (i.e., intrusive, unreasonable, nagging thoughts and images) aren't easily ignored. Nor should you try to ignore them. Before you can manage your obsessions, fears, and worries, you have to first accept that they exist.

2. Let go. Do you know that you have a choice in handling obsessive disorder symptoms? Dwell on the thought only to the point until it appears unreasonable. Don't justify and argue with yourself over it. Then try postponing it for later. Think of something else. Or simply let go! It takes practice, but many have done it, and so can you!

3. Back to work. One of the best ways to deal with obsessive disorder is to simply go back to your daily activities. Recognize the thoughts and worries, but don't dwell on them. Set a time limit (say, 5 minutes) then just go back to work.

4. Tension release. If you get anxious or tense once you try to let go of these obsessive thoughts, don't think it's unusual. It's quite a normal reaction, but it can be dealt with. Some people use a tension ball, others do push ups, yet others pray or meditate. See what works for you.

5. Sub-vocalize. Tell yourself positive statements to get a mental boost. Say stuff to yourself like: "This thought isn't helping me; it's unreasonable; it's totally ridiculous; I refuse to argue about it, I'll just let it go, etc. (When you sub-vocalize, choose only statements you believe to be true.)

6. Take a mind break. If you can't immediately stop obsessive disorder from interfering with your work, take a mental break. Read some poetry, some verses of Scripture, or a book or magazine.

7. Take a physical break. This is especially helpful if your obsessive disorder centers on work. Physical activity is one of the best, natural morale boosters. Take a walk in a nearby park. Or slip on your running shoes and work the stairs!