Understanding Pure OCD with Kimberley Quinlan: A Deep Dive into Intrusive Thoughts
It's a behavior you do to try and solve the intrusive thoughts when we look at it through the Ocd lens.
Imagine having thoughts so intrusive that they dominate your mind and lead to compulsive behaviors. That's what Kimberley Quinlan, a therapist specializing in OCD, discusses with host Paul Gilmartin in this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour'. Kimberley breaks down the various forms of OCD, focusing on a subtype known as 'Pure OCD', where the obsessions are purely mental and not accompanied by physical compulsions.
She shares her expertise on how to manage these thoughts without letting them take over your life. One fascinating segment involves a game called 'One Up', where Kimberley and Paul share outrageous thoughts to illustrate that everyone has bizarre ideas pop into their heads. The goal? To laugh at these thoughts instead of judging them. This exercise helps demystify intrusive thoughts and encourages a healthier response to them.
Kimberley also delves into the shame and isolation often felt by those with OCD. She emphasizes the importance of non-judgmental practice and mindfulness tools to manage these intrusive thoughts effectively. Whether you're dealing with OCD yourself or supporting a loved one, Kimberley's insights offer practical advice and compassionate understanding. This episode is not just informative but also engaging and relatable. Kimberley's approach is both professional and empathetic, making complex topics accessible to everyone.
If you're curious about OCD or looking for ways to manage intrusive thoughts, this conversation is a must-listen.