#16: How to Manage Reassurance Seeking in OCD and Break the OCD Cycle

Reassurance seeking in OCD is part and parcel of the OCD experience, but it is a symptom that does not get talked about that much.

This episode seeks to rectify that. In it, I discuss not just the 'what' of reassurance seeking but also the 'how' of responding to it without feeding the anxiety and getting stuck in the reassurance trap further. I explore how consistency and flexibility can transform interactions with loved ones into stepping stones toward recovery and offer some ideas on how to respond to a loved one with OCD when they are seeking reassurance. Episode highlights include:

- What is reassurance seeking in OCD?
- The difference between self-reassurance and seeking reassurance from others
- How shame and guilt interact with reassurance-seeking
- Impact on relationships
- An alternative to reassurance seeking: seeking support
- Example scripts on how to manage reassurance-seeking

**FREE DOWNLOAD** Am I reassurance seeking or gathering information? A simple guide to help you decide. Download here.

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The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.