Depends on what they are?

If it is a recurring series of words, I try to interrupt it and change it to something more positive. Then at least it builds me up instead of tearing me down.

If it's a disturbing WHAT IF THAT REALLY HAPPENS thought, trying to shove it away never helps. I find it gets it over wit the think about it, say "yep, that's awful," and let the thought pass. saying I WONT THINK ABOUT IT over and over drags it all out.

I've had to deal with obtrusive/negative thoughts for 35 years, and had varying success utilizing a number of recognized OCD treatments. Right now I'm having a tough bout of obtrusive thoughts/negativity, so I'm getting proactive about dealing with the situation rather than letting it run me over. Taking it a minute at a time; letting the thoughts come and go as best I can. Just observing them and not try to judge them. Deep breathing. There is no cure, but there are things one can do to make it better in the here and now.

Hope this helps, and that you have a good weekend.

My therapist told me the saying ''A thoughty is not a naughty'' lol works though, remember it's a thought, and you're giving it all the control, which also helps, but for me right now my ocd seems to be getting worse.....

I agree with Steve. We have to take the pain out of the thought. For me as well....it's acceptance. Know the thought, but change the way you react to it. A calmer and "live through it" outlook will be better than fighting and making it worse at the end. Our reaction is linked directly to how bad we're going to feel afterwards. Jerry

I had a "stop the thought" therapy once where I had to do something when the thoughts strike. But I ended up hurting myself in the process. That taught me to relax, take it, take the pain and live through it. Stand up stronger then when it's in the past. Jerry

Good posts...fighting or pushing back against the thoughts only seems to give these thoughts credibility...which they don't deserve!
Acceptance is a great word....acceptance and knowing that it is not you but your ocd helps to let these thoughts move out of your awareness.
Relaxation, deep focused breathing are helpful.

Thanks guys great advice-

blame it on my ocd!

Stop thought methods haven't helped me - but repeating its just my ocd has given me some ease - yet they are still there lingering.

I rather not take meds - but the fear these thoughts bring are horrible -

for now i am just trying everything else.

different things work for different people - the trick is finding something that works.

MY THOUGHTS ARE WHAT IF THOUGHTS-
Those are the only ones I ever have and to me they are the worst.

nothing is worse than what if.....

They don't call ocd the "doubting disease" for nothing.
What ifs, coulda, shoulda, woulda.....
all that you can do is do the best you can at any given moment.
Stay in the moment, live in the moment...you can't do anything about the past and the future will take care of itself.
Of course, this is easier said than done.
Allow these thoughts to come and go, peacefully.
Recognize and accept them for what they are....just thoughts, not reality.
Peace

I find writing helps. Have headings for all the different aspects of your life and write and write and write until you can't write anymore on each topic and I find it makes me feel better. Topics could include family, friends, work, childhood, relationships, who you are, who you want to be, how you plan to change, what you need to be happy, what makes you upset/why, dreams, depression, irrational thoughts, fears. Doing this gets to the root of who you are and it might be a regular thing you do or once might put everything into perspective. Good luck!

I have dealt with these type of thoughts for years. It is hard. I am sorry you are afflicted with the thoughts. I hope things get better.
The only thing that has helped me is to keep fighting and not let the thoughts stop me from pursuing my dreams. This can help bring about slow and steady progress.