OCD Tip: Label as OCD and Disengage

Dr. Debra Kissen, PhD, MHSA · January 15, 2019

This is a helpful checklist a client and I developed together on how to identify if OCD is taking over. Have it jotted down in the Notes section on your phone, and review if you’re feeling anxious. This will help detach you from the thoughts/feelings/situation and you can label it as OCD, something you don’t want to let win.

Is this urgent? Does it feel urgent?
Are you double checking or seeking reassurance right now, do you feel like you need to be confessing right now?
Do I feel guilty or bad?
Do I want to do anything about this?
Am I over-preparing?

Dr. Debra Kissen, PhD, MHSA

Dr. Debra Kissen is CEO of Light On Anxiety CBT Treatment Center. Dr. Kissen specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and related disorders. Dr. Kissen is the Co-Author of Overcoming Parental Anxiety: Rewire Your Brain to Worry Less and Enjoy Parenting More the Panic Workbook for Teens, Rewire Your Anxious Brains for Teens: Using CBT, Neuroscience, and Mindfulness to Help You End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry (The Instant Help Solutions Series) and Break Free from Intrusive Thoughts: An Evidence-Based Guide for Managing Fear and Finding Peace. Dr. Kissen also has a special interest in the principles of mindfulness and their application for anxiety disorders. Dr. Kissen has presented her research on CBT and mindfulness-based treatments for anxiety and related disorders at regional and national conferences. Dr. Kissen is the Co-Chair of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Public Education Committee. Dr. Kissen was the recipient of the 2020 Gratitude for Giving Spirit Award and the 2018 Anxiety Depression Association of America Member of Distinction Award.

Dr. Kissen often serves as a media psychologist and is available for press inquiries and strives to further the dissemination of empirically supported treatment (EST) information by offering user friendly quotes and simple to understand, practical tips and solutions to help mental health consumers move past stress and anxiety.

Learn more about Dr. Kissen and her own journey through past anxiety & panic disorder.

OCD Tip: Label as OCD and Disengage

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