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How do people with OCD deal with intrusive thoughts that have a religious theme? Other thoughts I can rationalize, but since I can't prove or disprove religion I can't rationalize these thoughts.

3 Answers
Last Updated: 05/16/2017 at 8:18pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Jessica McDaniel, LPC, LCPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I have been practicing cognitive behavioral psychotherapy since 2007 with a diverse group of adult clients with various diagnoses, all races, and socioeconomic classes.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
May 16th, 2017 8:18pm
It sounds like you might be battling with scrupulosity. I don't want to give you too much advice because I don't know what your religious affiliation is or to what extent you practice your faith. One way to overcome scrupulosity is to seek help from a licensed medical professional, even if it's just your primary care doctor to start with. You can also find a lot of valuable links online that discuss scrupulosity treatments and talk about other people's stories. You may find the following link helpful: http://beyondocd.org/expert-perspectives/articles/scrupulosity-blackmailed-by-ocd-in-the-name-of-god Also, please know that you aren't alone! I've battled with scrupulosity and beat it.
1AlwaysThere1
May 15th, 2017 5:33pm
Rationalising is a part of mental rituals.It only brings a sense of temporary belief.The first step to control the religious/blasphemous thought is accepting them as they are.If it is difficult to accept them,at least let them flow.Do not control or direct them in any direction.It's a long journey. Have compassion for yourself.Also meditation is a great tool.It gets time to get the hang of it, especially if you're dealing with OCD but it is worth it.Hope this helps.Take care :) If you are facing distress, please consult a therapist.If you can't search for online therapy or follow paths is 7cup app.Have a good day.
Anonymous
March 3rd, 2017 5:00pm
There is actually a subtype of OCD specifically about religious & moral obsessions/intrusive thoughts. It's called scrupulosity and it is treatable in more or less the same ways other types of OCD are treated. I recommend looking for a therapist who specializes in OCD, cognitive behavior therapy, or exposure and response prevention.