Mental Conditions Forum - Coping with disturbing thoughts

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Q: Coping with disturbing thoughts

asked by: DoctorQuestion on April 20th, 2009

Hello:

I've been somewhat isolated after dropping out of school several months ago. Which sent me into a depression(with bouts of slight derealization I think was probably caused by my insomnia that has since ended).

Which, to me, would seem like I'm coming up and out of it.

However, I've been having strange thoughts that are shocking, and frankly, scaring me..

They are somewhat compulsive, seemingly "popping" into my head. They're kinda violent; like commercials I once saw for the "Final Destination" franchise, only significantly less appalling.

These are especially unsettling because I'm a Buddhist! I'm appalled by violent video games and movies; I believe in non-violence at all costs(reading a book on Gandhi and am a big fan of HH Dalai Lama).

Is it from the depression? Is it OCD(which I've suspected that I may have, in the past)? Is it me trying to freak myself out with my own worst fear?

I should mention they have been becoming less intense.

Thanks

Replies(5)

Dr. Goce Aleksovski , MD

replied on April 21st, 2009

Mental Conditions Answer A6396

Every person has all kinds of thoughts. In Freud’s theory, they are a result of the basic drives organized in Id. Since certain of them are destructive, our Ego tries to repress them. In situations where the person is exposed to unusual disturbing situations (physical or emotional stress, anxiety) the control might not be most effective.

In your particular situation, it is good that the thoughts are becoming less intense. That might mean that the crisis is almost over.

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Comments (4)

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