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So, here's a fun fact: Tomorrow's Friday the 13th. 🌒🔮 That either excites you because you're a hardcore scary movie lover (like meeee!), OR - you're struggling because you deal with magical thinking around this day and these topics.

Now, before you start picturing black cats crossing your path or walking gingerly around ladders, let's dive into magical thinking and how it can have a real impact on OCD.

What do you think about when you hear "Friday the 13th"? Any superstitions that come to mind? Any sense of dread about something bad happening, any doubts about "bad luck" and what might happen?

If so, you wouldn't be alone. Flashback to the days when I worked in a residential OCD and anxiety unit and this day was dreaded and I mean dreaded among all of us, because the magical thinking on this way was at an all time high.

Here's the thing, Friday the 13th isn't just about superstitions; it's a prime example of how our minds can play tricks on us. Some folks may engage in rituals or superstitions to ward off bad luck on this day. You know, like knocking on wood or avoiding the number 13 like it's cursed.

For some people living with OCD, these superstitions can take a darker turn. They might believe that not following these rituals could lead to something terrible happening. It's like their brain is stuck in a never-ending loop of "if I don't do this, something bad will happen." Which turns into you thinking that the weight of the world is on your shoulders and, if you don't do this ritual, it'll be all your fault.

And that's where magical thinking comes into play. It's this idea that our thoughts can somehow influence random events in the universe. But for those with OCD, it's not just about avoiding walking under ladders – it's about living under a constant cloud of fear.

So, here's my question for you: Have you ever found yourself caught up in this web of magical thinking? Maybe it's not just about Friday the 13th; it could be other superstitions too. What beliefs have you held or still hold that you suspect might be linked to magical thinking?

I'll be honest; I've had my dance with this beast before. At one point, I genuinely thought that wearing certain lucky clothing items would somehow guarantee a smooth day. Spoiler alert: It didn't.

But here's the thing: Understanding the role of magical thinking in OCD can be a game-changer. It's like finally figuring out how to win a level in a video game.

By recognizing these patterns and facing them head on, without compulsions, you're essentially breaking free from the chains of magical thinking. Scary? Yes, but so is living with OCD.

The OCD & Anxiety Blueprint

And now, onto that weekly roundup I promised!

Here are the goodies we released this week, in case ya missed it:

💻 READ THIS WEEK'S BLOG: Living with OCD and anxiety can feel like an unending battle, one that often leaves you feeling trapped and overwhelmed. In this blog, we'll delve into the world of OCD recovery and explore a crucial concept: the cost-benefit analysis of pursuing evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Metacognitive Therapy (MCT).

🎙️ LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In this episode, I'm joined by joined by fellow OCD advocate and warrior, Krista, who shares her story about relationship OCD, postpartum OCD, and more.

We discuss ...

💪 how her OCD has morphed from theme to theme over time

💪 the difficulty of "the backdoor spike" and how to handle this common OCD phenomenon

💪 strategies that have helped her with mental compulsions along the way

📲 CHECK OUT OTHER FUN SOCIAL STUFF: Have you joined this amazing community on the 'gram, yet?! It's amazing and full of incredible people. Whether you're curious about The OCD & Anxiety Blueprint or need a really good laugh, check it out!

What are your thoughts on magical thinking? How has it shown up in your own journey with OCD? Let's chat about it and keep this conversation going.

Over and out ...

PSST: If you struggle significantly with magical thinking or superstitious OCD, be sure to check out The OCD and Anxiety Recovery Blueprint. When you get The Blueprint in full, you get an additional 17 subtype specific videos - including one solely on magical thinking and superstitious obsessions and compulsions. Click here take your recovery to the next level and get started with The Blueprint today. 💪

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