Category: Resources
-
Overcome Sleep Anxiety: CBT Techniques to Quiet Your Worrying Mind and Enhance Rest
Introduction: The Midnight Musings of a Worried Mind Ever found yourself wide awake at 3 a.m., your mind buzzing with a myriad of worries instead of blissfully counting sheep? Trust me, you’re not alone. Hi there, I’m a clinical psychologist, but you can think of me more as a friend who’s delved deep into the…
-
Navigating Trauma Through Cognitive Insights
Trauma encompasses the emotional response to distressing events, such as accidents, natural disasters, or personal assaults, leaving lasting effects on the individual’s mental, physical, and emotional health. It often leads to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactions. The prevalence of trauma and…
-
Understanding Chronic Pain: A Cognitive Perspective
Chronic pain is a complex and pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a temporary and direct warning signal of injury or illness, chronic pain persists for months or years, often outlasting its original cause. It not only takes a toll on one’s physical health but also profoundly…
-
Beyond the Mirror: Cultivating Positive Body Image with Mindful Thinking
Introduction In today’s world, where appearances often take the center stage in social media and daily interactions, the concept of body image preoccupies many of us. But have you ever stopped to ponder how profoundly our thoughts and perceptions shape our body image? As a clinical psychologist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the significant impact that our…
-
OCD Diagnosis: Understanding and Managing the Cognitive Cycle
Introduction: Navigating the Maze of OCD Thoughts For many grappling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), the journey isn’t just about managing visible behaviors; it’s also an internal battle with relentless thoughts and doubts. If you’re reading this, you might be all too familiar with the constant cycle of intrusive thoughts, the urge to perform rituals to…
-
The Power of Not Testing Your OCD: Understanding the Cognitive Trap
Part 1: Why People Feel the Need to Test Their OCD As a clinical psychologist, I’ve seen many individuals grappling with the compulsions and intrusive thoughts characteristic of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). A common aspect of this struggle involves the incessant need to test or check their thoughts and behaviors. Understanding the cognitive underpinnings of this…
-
The Big Guide to OCD Cognitive Biases
Cognitive biases are like lenses through which we view the world, and they can distort our thinking. In the context of OCD, these biases can intensify obsessions and drive compulsions, creating a challenging cycle. Understanding these biases is key to understanding how OCD affects thought processes and behaviors. Why This Matters By exploring the intersection…
-
Overcoming Scrupulosity OCD: A Cognitive Approach to Fear of Sin
Today, we want to discuss a challenging yet treatable form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) known as scrupulosity. Scrupulosity is characterized by an excessive worry about committing a sin or being morally imperfect. Individuals often struggle with persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and engage in mental or physical actions (compulsions) to alleviate their distress. Let’s explore some…
-
OCD Quiz: Now You Need to Answer Just 4 Questions!
Every week, people ask me – “Do I have OCD? How can I test it?”. The short answer is that there are a few available measures for OCD. The long answer, that most people are reluctant to hear, is that it can get more complicated. So, are there any OCD symptoms tests that are helpful?…
-
Enhancing Sleep with Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches: Challenging Cognitive Themes for Better Sleep
“Sleep disturbances are often maintained from maladaptive thought patterns. By challenging maladaptive thought patterns such as catastrophic thinking or fear of sleeplessness, we can significantly improve our sleep quality and well being.” Prof. Guy Doron, Reichman University Aron’s experience with dealing with sleep disturbances As a fresh college grad, I was in a constant battle…
-
OCD Explained: A Deep Dive into Research, Cognitive Behaviors, and the Impact on the Mind
“I’ve been living with OCD for years, and it’s been a challenging journey. Understanding why I have it while others don’t is complex. I learned that OCD involves a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. It’s like my brain is wired differently, making me more susceptible to these intrusive thoughts and compulsions. It’s not…
-
Navigating the Labyrinth of OCD: Reddit Versus Reality
As a clinical psychologist, I have witnessed the burgeoning dialogue about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) on various social media platforms, including Reddit. These forums offer a kaleidoscope of personal anecdotes, shared experiences, and a sense of community that can be both comforting and informative for individuals grappling with OCD. However, it is critical to distinguish between…