12/09/2025
OCD doesn’t trap you because you’re weak — it traps you in a cycle.
Here’s how it works ⬇️
🔁 The OCD Cycle
1️⃣ Intrusive thought: “What if something bad happens?”
2️⃣ Anxiety spikes: Your body reacts like there’s real danger.
3️⃣ Compulsion or reassurance: Checking, avoiding, Googling, mental reviewing.
4️⃣ Short-term relief: Anxiety drops… temporarily.
5️⃣ OCD learns: “Good thing you did that — we avoided danger.”
➡️ The thought comes back stronger next time.
This is how people get stuck. Not because they “gave in,” but because OCD is a convincing bully.
🧠 How ERP helps
ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) gently interrupts the cycle by:
✅ Facing fears on purpose and at your pace
✅ Resisting compulsions, even when anxiety rises
✅ Letting your brain learn: “I can handle this. Nothing terrible happens.”
Over time, anxiety decreases without compulsions. And OCD loses its grip.
✨ ERP isn’t about being fearless.
It’s about learning you don’t need OCD’s rules to be safe.
If this cycle feels familiar, support can help — and you don’t have to break it alone.
**This video is for general educational purposes only. It is not therapy, does not constitute clinical treatment, and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or manage mental health conditions. This content is not a substitute for working with a qualified mental health professional. Watching this video does not create a therapist-client relationship with OCD Wellness or any of our clinicians.
The information provided is general and may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult a qualified mental health professional for personalized support.
If you are in crisis or at risk of harm, please contact your local emergency services or crisis hotline immediately. In Canada, you can call or text 988 anytime.
All content in this video is the intellectual property of OCD Wellness and may not be copied, shared, or redistributed without written permission.
