It's essential to remember that intrusive thoughts are a common experience and do not define who you are as a person. These thoughts are typically a product of anxiety, stress, or other mental health factors and do not reflect your true intentions or beliefs.
Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Recognize the nature of intrusive thoughts: Understand that intrusive thoughts are involuntary and can be unsettling, but they do not have any inherent power over you or your actions.
Reframe the thought: Remind yourself that you are in control of your beliefs and actions. Repeat positive affirmations or statements that align with your values, such as "My soul belongs to God, and I am in charge of my thoughts."
Practice grounding techniques: When you experience distressing thoughts, use grounding techniques to bring yourself back to the present moment. Focus on your breath, touch something tangible, or name things around you to stay connected to reality.
Seek support: Talk to someone you trust about your thoughts and fears. Sharing your experiences with a friend, family member, or a mental health professional can provide relief and help you gain perspective.
Consider professional help: If intrusive thoughts are significantly impacting your daily life and causing distress, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can provide specialized guidance and help you develop coping strategies tailored to your situation.
Limit exposure to triggering content: If certain online content or comments are exacerbating your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to such material to reduce the triggers for intrusive thoughts.
Engage in self-care: Focus on activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Engaging in hobbies, exercise, spending time with loved ones, or practicing mindfulness can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Challenge irrational beliefs: If you are attaching special significance to the number of views on a comment or any other unrelated event, try to recognize it as a cognitive distortion and challenge those irrational beliefs.
Remember, it's crucial to consult with a mental health professional for personalized support if you are struggling with intrusive thoughts or any mental health concerns. They can provide appropriate guidance and help you navigate through your experiences in a safe and supportive manner.