How to deal with troubling thoughts | Psyche Guides

Many psychotherapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) only touch the surface of the problem, not the origin of the disturbing thought.

Though simply having those unwanted intrusive thoughts does not automatically mean that those will be acted upon, as most people are simply terrified of having such thoughts.

1. Acknowledge and label these thoughts as bad or negative, creating a distance between you and the thoughts.
2. Write them down, to have it in front of you on a piece of paper, as you reflect on it and stop the worrying in the process.
3. Recognize that the thoughts are real and are an unpleasant problem.
4. Recognize and validate your own emotional response to the thoughts.
5. Do not brood over them, and try to redirect your attention to something else, which is pleasant.

1. Practice mindfulness meditation, focusing your attention to your breath or a mantra.
2. Note the thought and ‘park’ it, reminding yourself to tackle it later.
3. Do not distract yourself in a way that makes your mind rebound towards the unwanted thought you are trying to avoid.
4. Do not take comfort or reassurance in others, as it can be a cause of false beliefs and incorrect notions.
5. Do not worry, ruminate or delve into negative self-talk.