5 Tips for Sexual Orientation OCD
It’s Pride Month.
Sexual Orientation OCD (SO-OCD) involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts about your sexual orientation.
Sexual Orientation OCD
Sexual Orientation OCD (SO-OCD) is not about questioning one's identity because of a genuine change or realization but rather a pattern of obsessive doubt and anxiety.
Intrusive thoughts can be distressing but are not reflective of reality. These thoughts are unwanted and cause significant stress. For example, "What if I'm gay and I don't know it?" or "What if I’m straight and I don’t love my partner?" People with SO-OCD might engage in behaviors like excessive reassurance-seeking, mental reviewing, or avoiding certain situations to ease their anxiety.
Some common misconceptions about SO-OCD:
It's Not About Choice. SO-OCD is not about your choice or your preferences. It's an intrusive pattern that goes against your values and how you see yourself.
It's Not a Moral Failing. Having SO-OCD doesn't make you a bad person. OCD attacks what you love and value the most.
If you are struggling with SO-OCD. Here are 5 practical tips for managing SO-OCD:
Avoid Reassurance Seeking. Reassurance may feel good momentarily but reinforces the OCD cycle.
No Internet Searches. Avoid browsing the internet for answers about your sexual orientation. It won't help and will likely increase your anxiety.
Do your normal thing! Don't avoid activities that might trigger intrusive thoughts. Face them head-on to diminish their power.
Use Mindfulness Techniques. Practice mindfulness to observe your thoughts without engaging with them. It helps in recognizing they are just thoughts, not truths.
Join a Support Group. Speaking openly about your concerns in a safe environment can be incredibly beneficial.
Consulsion
Remember, SO-OCD is tough, but with the right treatment and techniques, you can manage it effectively. You are not alone, and help is available. Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more informative content. Happy Pride Month, and remember to be kind to yourself always. 🏳️🌈
Feel free to explore my other blogs and join me next week for a special episode on self-compassion and how to practice it. I’ll also have a sneak peek of my upcoming mindfulness podcast, "Soul Sync," debuting July 1st. Being in the present moment and observing your thoughts without judgment can help reduce the power of intrusive thoughts.
Looking forward to seeing you back here next week!
