Managing Your Fearful And Obsessive Thoughts

There are times when we encounter negative thoughts that can be overwhelming. For some people, the more they try to get rid of their thoughts, the stronger they become. 

If you are struggling with ridding yourself of fearful and obsessive thoughts, here is a brief list of techniques to help with that.

1. Don’t  focus on your fearful thinking.

The first thing a person must do is not to dwell on the fear provoking thought when it comes. The more a person tries to reason out the fear behind the thought, the stronger it becomes. The next time you encounter a negative situation, get into the practice of not dwelling on it.

2. Think of a red stop sign.

At times, a person might encounter a fearful thought that may be difficult to manage. When this happens, visualize a red stop sign which can serve as a reminder to think about something else. Regardless of how scary your negative thinking may be, do not dwell on it. This technique is also great for dealing with your negative situations and depression.

3. Try to find your source of fear.

The difference between an obsessive thought and a regular one is that an obsessive thought is based on fear. With this in mind, try to find the source of the fear behind your negative thinking and then find ways to get rid of your worries.

4. Try to put the fear aside.

Sometimes, you may encounter a lot of scary thoughts coming at you all at once. Instead of getting upset, remember that your negative thinking is exaggerated with worry. When you realize that your fear is the exaggeration factor, try to put the fear aside. This may help calm your anxiety. 

5. Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking.

When encountering thoughts that make you fearful or depressed, challenge them by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. Focus on the reality of your situation and not on your negative thinking.

6. Carry a small notebook of positive statements with you.

Try keeping a small notebook of positive statements that makes you feel good. Whenever you come across a positive and uplifting verse that makes you happy, write it down in a small notebook. You can then carry this notebook around in your pocket and whenever you feel anxious, you can read your notebook.

7. Take it one day at a time.

Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with your situation. In addition, you will not feel overwhelmed with everything if you focus on one thing at a time.

8. Get help.

Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your fears and anxieties. Licensed mental health professionals will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future.

Submitted by Stan Popovich

Quote at bottom of page 8:

“Go and love someone exactly as they are. And then watch how quickly they transform into the greatest, truest version of themselves. When one feels seen and appreciated in their own essence, one is instantly empowered.”  – Wes Angelozzi