S1-E21 | What if OCD's whispers are just thoughts, not prophecies of who you'll become

Highlight

"Around the age of seven, every single night time, I used to be scared to go to bed because of the fear of me stabbing my parents. And it took a long, long time for me to really understand what that was. I used to cry, I didn't want to go to bed, and I couldn't tell my parents because, of course, if you tell your parents that, I mean, what's gonna happen?"

Summary

In this enlightening conversation, Eleanor shares her profound journey through the struggles of intrusive thoughts and OCD, beginning from her childhood experiences to the challenges faced during motherhood. She emphasises the importance of disidentifying from one's thoughts, understanding the role of meditation, and the power of communication in overcoming mental health challenges. 
Eleanor discusses practical steps for self-discovery, the significance of cognitive behavioural therapy, and the journey towards empowerment and acceptance. 
Her story is a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar issues, highlighting that happiness and self-love are attainable.

About Eleanor
Website - Wonderfully Mental
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/Wonderfullymental
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Wonderfullymental
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@Wonderfullymental

Resources

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - https://www.ocduk.org/ocd/
• Intrusive thoughts
  •  https://www.intrusivethoughts.org/
  •  https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/symptoms-of-ocd/#WhatAreIntrusiveThoughts

Takeaways

• Intrusive thoughts can start in childhood and evolve.
• Motherhood can intensify intrusive thoughts and fears.
• Dis-identifying from intrusive thoughts is crucial for mental health.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can provide valuable tools for managing thoughts.
• Communication and sharing experiences can alleviate feelings of shame.
• Understanding that thoughts are not reality is empowering.
• Finding your true self requires time and introspection.
• Reconnecting with the body through movement can aid emotional healing.
• Empowerment comes from accepting oneself and one's journey.

Sound Bites

• "You are not your thoughts."
• "Disidentifying from the mind is freedom."
• "We all deserve happiness."