Overcoming Self-Doubt: Anxiety and Its Impact

Q: Overcoming Self-Doubt: Anxiety and Its Impact

Hello： Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that they are manifestations of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). <br>I recommend visiting the psychosomatic or psychiatric department at a nearby hospital, which should help improve these symptoms.

I tend to doubt myself?

I often doubt myself; sometimes when I leave a store or supermarket without buying anything, or when the security alarm goes off as I walk by due to a malfunction, I wonder if I accidentally put something from the store in my pocket without realizing it.
Even though I haven't touched my pockets, I come home and frantically empty them out, but there's nothing in there except for the items I purchased.
Additionally, when I ride my bike, I sometimes question whether I accidentally hit someone...
and so on.

You Nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/07

Dr. Zhan Hongyu reply Psychiatry

Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that they are manifestations of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
I recommend visiting the psychosomatic or psychiatric department at a nearby hospital, which should help improve these symptoms.

Reply Date: 2006/05/07

More Info

Overcoming self-doubt and anxiety can be a challenging journey, but understanding the nature of these feelings is a crucial first step. Your experiences of doubting yourself, especially in situations like shopping or riding a bike, are common manifestations of anxiety. This anxiety often leads to obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which can significantly impact your daily life.

Self-doubt often stems from a fear of judgment or making mistakes. When you find yourself questioning whether you accidentally took something from a store or if you hit someone while biking, it reflects a heightened state of anxiety. This anxiety can be exacerbated by past experiences or a tendency to overthink situations. For many, these feelings can create a cycle of worry that is difficult to break.
The first thing to recognize is that these feelings are not uncommon. Many people experience similar thoughts, especially in situations that involve social interaction or public scrutiny. The key is to understand that these thoughts do not reflect reality. Just because you feel like you might have done something wrong does not mean that you actually did. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one effective approach that can help you challenge these negative thoughts and replace them with more rational, balanced thinking.

One technique that can be beneficial is mindfulness. Mindfulness encourages you to focus on the present moment and observe your thoughts without judgment. When you feel the urge to check your pockets or replay a situation in your mind, try to pause and take a few deep breaths. Acknowledge the thought without acting on it. This practice can help you create distance between your thoughts and your actions, reducing the compulsion to check or reassess.

Another helpful strategy is to keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings. Writing down your experiences can provide clarity and help you identify patterns in your thinking. Over time, you may notice that many of your worries are unfounded or exaggerated. This realization can empower you to challenge those thoughts when they arise in the future.

It's also essential to practice self-compassion. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes and that it's okay to feel uncertain at times. Instead of criticizing yourself for having these thoughts, try to treat yourself with kindness. Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes. Building a positive self-image can help counteract feelings of self-doubt.

If these feelings of anxiety and self-doubt continue to interfere with your daily life, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide support and guidance tailored to your specific needs. Therapy can offer a safe space to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies.

In summary, overcoming self-doubt and anxiety involves understanding the nature of these feelings, practicing mindfulness, journaling your thoughts, and cultivating self-compassion. Remember, it's a journey, and it's okay to seek help along the way. You are not alone in this, and with time and effort, you can learn to manage these feelings more effectively.

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