Distress in OCD
If we interpret our unwanted intrusions to mean something bad or serious, than it makes sense that we might have a hightened emotional reaction.
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The emotions and body sesnsations in OCD can be varied.
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Commonly, anxiety is one of the primary reactions. So much so, that OCD was once considered an anxiety disorder.
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But as we learn more about OCD, we understand that there is no one our body might respond.
Most people interpret unwanted intrusions as meaningless, random, brain processes.
This means that they are hardly noticed, or are not overly distressing. They don't overly impact on what the person decides to do next.
Most people interpret unwanted intrusions as meaningless, random, brain processes.
This means that they are hardly noticed, or are not overly distressing. They don't overly impact on what the person decides to do next.
In OCD, unwanted intrusions are interpreted to mean something “bad”.
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This leads to more distressing feelings, and strong urges to use compulsions and/or avoid situations.
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