Intrusive thoughts can feel incredibly real and vivid because of how our brains process and interpret information. These thoughts are unwelcome, distressing, and often disturbing, and they can occur in the form of images, ideas, or impulses that pop into our minds involuntarily. There are a few reasons why these thoughts can feel so real:
Attention and focus: When intrusive thoughts occur, they can demand significant attention and focus in our minds. The more we try to suppress or fight these thoughts, the more they tend to persist and intensify. This heightened attention makes them feel more real and immediate.
Emotional intensity: Intrusive thoughts often come with intense emotions, such as fear, guilt, shame, or anxiety. These emotions are processed by the brain's limbic system, which is closely linked to memory and perception. As a result, the combination of the emotional response and the thoughts can make them feel very real and compelling.
Cognitive distortions: Our brains are subject to various cognitive biases and distortions. For example, the availability heuristic can make us believe that events that come to mind more easily are more likely to occur. When intrusive thoughts become prominent, they can create a sense of heightened risk or probability, further reinforcing their apparent realism.
Repetition and rumination: Intrusive thoughts can be repetitive, and when we ruminate over them, going over the details again and again, they become ingrained in our minds. The constant repetition contributes to their sense of realness.
Mismatch between thoughts and beliefs: Sometimes, intrusive thoughts conflict with our values, beliefs, or self-concept, causing significant distress. This discordance can make us hyper-aware of the thoughts and reinforce their perceived reality.
Brain circuitry: The brain doesn't easily distinguish between thoughts that are real and those that are imagined. The neural circuits that fire when experiencing an actual event can also be activated when vividly imagining it, contributing to the feeling of realness.
It's essential to remember that intrusive thoughts are a normal part of the human experience and do not necessarily reflect your true desires, intentions, or character. They are a product of the complex workings of the mind. However, if intrusive thoughts become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, it may be beneficial to seek support from a mental health professional who can help you understand and cope with them effectively.