PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
3700 Joseph Siewick Dr., Suite 400 • Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 620-4300 • EyePlasticMD.com
Inside This Issue
1
Behaving a Little More Saintly
2 2 3 3 4
Getting Outdoors Despite the Cold
Treatment for a Special Needs Patient
Sleep Apnea and Your Eyes
Roasted Pork Loin With Apples
A Healthy Way to Manage Intrusive Thoughts
Why Do I Constantly Think About This? HOW TO MANAGE INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS
Many people deal with unwelcome, intrusive thoughts every day. We’ve all experienced unwanted images or notions racing through our minds, and it can be difficult to concentrate on what we need to be doing. These thoughts can also trigger feelings of anxiety, worry, and shame. But know you’re not alone — some estimate that 6 million Americans are affected, so many can empathize with what you’re going through. Here is some good advice about intrusive thoughts and how to manage them in a healthy way. WHAT ARE INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS? Intrusive thoughts are unwanted ideas that occur without warning at any time, often triggered by stress or anxiety, or even short-term biological factors, like hormone shifts. They can come in many forms, and people often worry about what they mean, so naturally, they try to control or stop the ideas altogether. But trying to prohibit these thoughts can make them more persistent. WHAT CAN YOU DO? Instead of pushing these thoughts out of your mind, acknowledge that they are intrusive concepts and allow them to linger. Understand they will pass, but prepare yourself for other unwanted thoughts. Most importantly, push through and continue to complete your tasks and errands when the thoughts occur.
If you try to control, suppress, question, act, or engage with intrusive thoughts, you’ll likely be even more fixated on them. You’ll feel more in control if you allow them to pass through your brain instead of trying to avoid and ignore them. Intrusive thoughts can feel distressing, but allowing them to freely enter and exit your mind will provide you with ease — even if it doesn’t seem that way. However, if intrusive ideas persist and continually impair your ability to work or do things you enjoy, seek information from a mental health professional. You’re never alone
in your struggles, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
4
EyePlasticMD.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator