Out of OCD Podcast

Ep. 16 OCD Thought Loops

Have you ever been trapped in an OCD thought loop—overanalyzing intrusive thoughts, trying to logic your way out, only to get pulled in deeper? You’re not alone. In this episode, I share my personal journey through OCD, the science behind thought loops, and the proven strategies that helped me break free. We’ll dive into:  ✅ What OCD thought loops are and why they happen  ✅ How OCD tricks your brain into compulsions  ✅ The power of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)  ✅ Practical steps to disengage from intrusive thoughts and take back control OCD doesn’t define you, and you can retrain your brain to stop giving these thoughts power. Tune in for insights, encouragement, and actionable steps to start your recovery journey. Link to source material [https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(18)32022-5/abstract] Free ERP OCD Tracker [https://outofocd.com/freetracker/] Free ERP Workbook with Hierarchy [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/] 🎧 Listen now and start breaking free! Resources: Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/]YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/]

Ep. 15 Cure OCD for Good!

In this episode of [Podcast Name], we’re diving deep into OCD recovery—what it really takes to break free from intrusive thoughts and compulsions. We’ll bust some common myths, talk about how OCD hijacks your brain, and most importantly, explore how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can help you rewire your mind for lasting change. Recovery isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about rewiring your brain step by step. We’ll break down the process, talk about the power of tracking progress, and remind you that setbacks don’t define you. If you’ve ever felt trapped in the OCD cycle, know this: you can get out. And in today’s episode, we’ll show you how. Listen now to start your journey to real OCD recovery! Free ERP OCD Tracker [https://outofocd.com/freetracker/] Free ERP Workbook with Hierarchy [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/] Blog Post on this topic [https://outofocd.com/cure-ocd-for-good-yep-for-reals/] Blog Post on hierarchy [https://outofocd.com/intentional-erp-for-ocd/] Resources: Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/]YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/]

Ep. 14: Why Do I Feel So Tired All the Time? The Link Between OCD, Burnout, and Exhaustion

In this illuminating episode, we explore the deep connection between OCD and exhaustion. We discuss why people with OCD often experience profound mental, physical, and emotional fatigue, and offer practical strategies for breaking the cycle of burnout and finding relief. Key Points * OCD creates a constant state of mental alertness that acts like running a marathon with your mind all day * The physical toll of compulsions combined with sleep disruption leads to profound exhaustion * People with OCD are seven times more likely to struggle with insomnia * Up to 67% of people with OCD will also experience major depressive disorder * OCD and depression are often misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms * Many turn to maladaptive coping mechanisms like alcohol, which ultimately worsen symptoms If OCD is leaving you exhausted, take one small step today toward giving yourself the rest you deserve. Whether that's reaching out for professional help, prioritizing sleep, or finding healthier coping mechanisms, you don't have to live with constant burnout. Resources from this Episode: Episode Blog [https://outofocd.com/why-do-i-feel-so-tired-all-the-time-the-link-between-ocd-burnout-and-exhaustion/] Study on Insomnia [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032719326825] OCD and Depression [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5353106/#:~:text=The%20lifetime%20prevalence%20of%20depression,disorders%20may%20coexist%20with%20OCD.] Resources: Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/]YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/]

Ep. 13: Let The Thoughts – How to Reframe OCD Thoughts and Quiet, Yes Quiet Them Down

In this insightful episode, we explore a fresh perspective on managing OCD and how this approach can transform your relationship with OCD by viewing intrusive thoughts as separate from you and simply "letting them be" without engaging in compulsions. Blog related to video [https://outofocd.com/let-the-thoughts-how-to-reframe-ocd-thoughts-and-quiet-yes-quiet-them-down/] Key Points Introducing the "Let Them Theory" from Mel Robbins' book and its application to OCD management Personifying OCD as a separate entity (Toi calls hers "Gloria") to create helpful distance The parallels between this approach and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy A practical 60-second exercise for practicing thought observation without compulsions How this mindset shift puts you in control rather than constantly defending against intrusive thoughts If you're struggling with OCD, try this approach, even for just 60 seconds at a time. Let the thoughts be there without engaging, and practice putting yourself back in control. Resources: Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/]YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/]

Ep. 12: Who Am I Really? - How We Cover Up OCD and the Dangers of Doing So

Episode Summary In this powerful episode, we explore the hidden struggles of living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and why keeping it secret often worsens the condition. I share my personal journey of masking compulsions and the freedom she found in finally opening up about her diagnosis. Key Points * The stigma and misconceptions around OCD often lead people to hide their condition * Keeping OCD secret can increase isolation, delay treatment, and give the disorder more power * Many people with OCD become experts at disguising compulsions in public settings * Opening up about OCD, even to just one trusted person, can break the cycle of shame * Resources like the International OCD Foundation and NOCD can help educate others If you're struggling with OCD, take that first small step toward openness today. You don't have to face this alone. Resources: Blog Page for this episode [https://outofocd.com/who-am-i-really-how-we-cover-up-ocd-and-the-dangers-of-doing-so/] Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/] YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] Study on Insomnia [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032719326825] OCD and Depression [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5353106/#:~:text=The%20lifetime%20prevalence%20of%20depression,disorders%20may%20coexist%20with%20OCD.] OUT of OCD Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] OUT of OCD Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] Resources: Free Workbook to Quit OCD [https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/]: https://outofocd.com/free-workbook/ Out of OCD Website [https://outofocd.com/]: https://www.outofocd.com [https://www.outofocd.com/]YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxHGUuSz7Hv7FQrLIL7n6rw] https://www.youtube.com/@ToiHershman Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/]: https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/ [https://www.instagram.com/outofocd/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman]: https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman [https://www.facebook.com/toi.hershman] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/toihershman/] Online support groups: [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/] https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/ [https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/]