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Contact me for a private session, visit www.robertjamescoaching.com/contact This podcast is all about OCD and anxiety and how we can have a better relationship with it. If you struggle with OCD or another anxiety disorder and want to learn how to manage it better, then this podcast is for you.
Episodes
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Demystifying Reassurance Seeking: A Deep Dive into OCD Compulsions
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Welcome to Episode 367 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of reassurance seeking, a common compulsion in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In this episode, we discuss how reassurance seeking can manifest in various forms, making it imperative to recognize and understand it to eliminate this prevalent compulsion.
We share strategies to spot compulsions, including journaling and mindfulness, which can counter the draining cycle of reassurance seeking. Learning to tolerate uncertainty and discomfort, subsequently fostering self-compassion and assurance, are key steps to breaking this cycle. A better understanding of how reassurance seeking perpetuates and sometimes exacerbates OCD symptoms, straining personal relationships and reducing self-confidence, will often lead to healthier coping mechanisms.
Demonstrating how reassurance seeking can be a trap, we explore both its obvious and subtle manifestations. Tackling techniques to identify and transform reassurance seeking behaviour, we delve into the practice of tuning into emotional states to better arm oneself against the relentless storm of OCD.
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Compassionate Courage: Understanding and Embracing the Challenge of OCD
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Welcome to Episode 366 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast by Robert James Coaching. In this episode, we delve into the often-critical role of compassionate courage in managing and overcoming OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and anxiety.
We unravel the concept of self-compassion in facing the often-debilitating effects of OCD and anxiety. Many of us tend to fall into the trap of self-judgment and negativity, especially under the grip of OCD. Striking a balance between acceptance and compassion for ourselves can turn this around. Self-compassion is a verb, an active pursuit that can significantly alter our perspective, shaping it to be more positive and forgiving.
This episode also highlights quotes from profound thinkers like Thich Nhat Hanh, who emphasizes that compassion is an action. We also discuss Jack Cornfield's words of wisdom about the non-judgmental 'heart of compassion.' We explore how practicing self-compassion is akin to stepping into a hero's journey, where we acknowledge the challenges, face them head-on, and grow from our experiences in dealing with OCD.
Moreover, it is completely okay to have setbacks and mistakes along the way. These can actually be learning opportunities when viewed through the lens of compassion. The 'ancient heart of compassion’, as Cornfield phrases it, is the gateway to freedom which involves allowing ourselves to feel and process our difficult emotions and thoughts. This podcast endorses patience in this journey to wellness, shedding light on how adopting self-compassion can lead you towards a better, fulfilling life despite OCD and anxiety.
Through the course of this episode, we look at dealing with OCD from varied angles and explore different approaches like exposure work, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness techniques. In essence, this podcast underscores the importance of self-compassion and courage in acknowledging, facing, managing, and learning from our struggles with OCD. It illustrates how transforming this compassion into action can lead to authentic happiness and personal growth
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Overcoming OCD is Like Unravelling a Knot Without Actually Loosening it’s Twists
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Welcome to the 365th episode of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, where we explore how to develop a healthier relationship with anxiety disorders. In this episode, your host - Robert James engages in a friendly chat about OCD and anxiety while sitting comfortably with his feet-warming friend, Bruno the dog.
This episode focuses on how to tackle Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety without 'physically' undoing it. Often, getting over OCD involves a level of acceptance and a willingness to embrace uncertainty as we let go of constantly trying to 'fix' it thereby unraveling the 'knot' of OCD. Robert provides insights on how to improve mental health by implementing techniques such as acceptance and commitment therapy.
Robert uses the metaphor of the 'monkey knot' to illustrate OCD, detailing how trying to problem solve our way out of it can inadvertently result in a complex knot that ties us down. Self-compassion, acceptance, and understanding that we determine our own mental states are important tools to navigate these challenging emotions.
Further in the episode, Robert discusses the importance of finding your own serenity even in tumultuous emotional seas. This involves going deeper within yourself using tools such as the breath, meditation, and mindfulness to find that space of calm. He also emphasizes the importance of focusing on your values, embracing difficult emotions, and reorienting your attention away from the anxieties that dominate your thoughts.
In conclusion, Robert encourages compassion for oneself and the cultivation of emotional flexibility through the process of letting difficult emotions ebb and flow without attempting to immediately resolve them. He underscores the significance of refocusing our energies on aspects of life that contribute to our holistic well-being and emotional health.
The episode ends with a reminder that any material viewed or information listened to on any platform is for informational purposes only, and should not replace professional medical or mental health advice.
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
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Saturday Feb 10, 2024
Saturday Feb 10, 2024
Join Robert in the 364th episode of 'The OCD and Anxiety Podcast' featuring an engaging conversations with Dr. Stephen Whiteside, a distinguished clinical psychologist and director of the Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Program at Mayo Clinic. The focus of this episode is the vital, yet often overlooked area of OCD and anxiety in children.
Dr. Whiteside and Robert delve into prevalent OCD themes in children such as contamination fears and how treatments differ between adults and children. The conversation illuminates on the essential role of exposure therapy and the challenges of managing mental health in the young population, especially in the current era of pervasive social media and global pandemic.
Also, Dr. Whiteside discusses his invaluable book, 'Anxiety Coach: A Parent's Guide to Treating Childhood Anxiety and OCD', offering profound insights to parents on understanding and maneuvering through the complexities of their child's anxiety or OCD. The discussion advocates the power of children and parents working together as a team to combat OCD and anxiety conclusively.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this enlightening episode will provide you with practical solutions and hope for a healthier, anxiety-free future for the children in your life. Explore show notes for more details about Dr. Whiteside and his insightful book, starting the journey to liberate your child from the clutches of fear.
You can find Dr Stepens book here: https://www.amazon.com/Mayo-Clinic-Anxiety-Coach-Groundbreaking/dp/B0BQMJNXR3/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1707566336&refinements=p_27%3AStephen+P.+Whiteside&s=books&sr=1-2
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
What Happens in the OCD Brain When We Get Caught Up in Overthinking?
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Immerse yourself in the intricate complexities of the human brain with this insight-packed episode. Journey deep into the cerebral labyrinth and unravel the often misunderstood construct of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
In episode 363, our host provides a comprehensive analysis on the detrimental effects of overthinking and rumination. We explore the critical roles of the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala in triggering heightened levels of stress and anxiety. Understand how constant overthinking can lead to cognitive impairments, thereby making it difficult for OCD patients to adopt new perspectives or manage daily tasks efficiently.
We also examine the profound impact of mental exhaustion on our energy levels, attention span, and working memory. Using research-based facts, delve into the significant effects of rumination on the brain's delicate balance of neurotransmitters, chiefly dopamine and serotonin.
Despite the gravity of this complex phenomenon, the episode segues into positive news about the remarkable potential of the human brain for neuroplasticity. Overcome your intrusive thoughts and obsessive worry by steering your attention towards more productive areas. This encouraging message highlights the power of mindfulness, elucidating the efficacy of choosing our thoughts and reactions to bring about behavioral and psychological changes.
Explore various strategies such as the Wim Hof method, breathwork, and body regulation through exercise, along with mindfulness, to promote holistic well-being. End on a powerful note as we engage an empowering discussion about resilience, determination, and the will to reclaim control from OCD.
Remember, this episode is for informational purposes, and does not replace consultations with medical or mental health professionals. Whether you're grappling with OCD, providing support to a loved one, or simply interested in understanding the intimate relationship between OCD and brain function, this episode promises a learning journey towards improving overall well-being.
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Saturday Feb 03, 2024
Break the Cycle: 3 Powerful Approaches to Defeat OCD Delusions.
Saturday Feb 03, 2024
Saturday Feb 03, 2024
http://www.robertjamescoaching.com/contact
Welcome to the 362nd episode of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, your supportive platform for discussing and navigating anxiety disorders. This episode zeroes in on effective strategies for breaking the relentless cycle of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We explore how OCD, a relentless intruder, disrupts daily routines and creates a perpetual cycle of thought, anxiety, and compulsion, leading to temporary relief. However, we emphasize the integral truth: you are not a prisoner to OCD.
We delve into the concept of choice. An essential starting point to regain control of our lives is consciously choosing helpful actions that align with our values, swapping old habits for healthier ones that guide us in facing our anxieties rather than letting OCD lead.
Our discussions highlight the significance of allowing ourselves to accept and fully experience all our emotions, rather than selectively numbing the difficult ones. We lean on the words of Brene Brown in "The Gifts of Imperfection", underlining that numbing the painful emotions invariably results in the numbing of positive ones as well.
Dealing with OCD begins with understanding that it's healthy to not incessantly pursue happiness. On this journey, acceptance plays a paradoxical role. Acknowledging and facing our struggle is what ultimately leads to genuine progress. By loosening the grip OCD has on our lives, we open ourselves to new possibilities and a better quality of life.
Do join us to gain a deeper understanding of dealing with OCD and improve your life. Remember, we're here for you, and we would love to hear your thoughts. We also have a growing YouTube channel full of helpful content. Please note, however, that our podcast and services should never substitute professional medical or mental health advice
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
You Love & You Learn: A JourneyThrough Relationship OCD and Anxiety with Sarah Yudkin
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Welcome to episode 361 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, a cutting-edge conversation on anxiety disorders and their intricacies. We delve deeply into the realities of Relationship Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (ROCD) and relationship anxiety with Sarah Yudkin, a relationship anxiety coach and the founder of You Love You Learn.
Through personal experiences and her journey from relationship anxiety to fulfilment and self-understanding, Sarah enhances our understanding of common relationship challenges arising from personality differences. We discuss the counterproductive ideal of the perfect "Disney" relationship, and how its pursuit often leads to anxiety.
In this in-depth dialogue, we traverse the benefits of meditation and breath work in managing anxiety, the role of self-awareness, and the importance of accepting feelings rather than seeking external validation. Learn from Sarah's insights as she reveals the transformational power of new information and changed perspectives on relationships.
Sharing intimate experiences of personal growth through anxiety, we cover the importance of a growth mindset, and how understanding and managing feelings is key in dealing with ROCD or relationship anxiety. Join us as we explore the profound influence of self-compassion, debunk self-critical thought patterns, and highlight the pivotal role flexibility plays in successful relationships.
Whether you are battling relationship OCD, relationship anxiety, or simply seeking insight into relationship dynamics, this episode promises a wealth of wisdom and tangible advice.
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Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Saturday Jan 27, 2024
Episode 360 - Perceived Fears vs. Reality: Unraveling OCD's Illusions
Saturday Jan 27, 2024
Saturday Jan 27, 2024
In this episode, we dive into the common phenomenon in OCD where fears and anxieties are often magnified beyond reality. We explore why our brains amplify these fears, the difference between perceived threats and actual risks, and share strategies to manage and bridge this gap.
I really hope you enjoy and of course, if you have any questions, then please let me know.
Key Points Discussed:
- The nature of fear in OCD and its impact on perception.
- How OCD exaggerates risks and threats, creating a gap between fear and reality.
- Real-world examples illustrating this disparity in OCD fears.
- Practical strategies, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
- Encouragement and support for those dealing with OCD
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Episode 359 - If I Stop Performing Compulsions Will OCD Leave Me Alone?
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
In today's episode, we take a look at compulsions and ask about what happens when we stop performing them. I hope you enjoy and find it helpful.
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
Episode 358 - Mastering OCD: Embracing Choice For Greater Empowerment
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
In today's episode, we focus on the transformative power of choice and how it can lead to greater personal empowerment for those challenged by OCD.
What You'll Learn Today:
- The role choice plays in managing OCD symptoms.
- Practical techniques for making empowered decisions despite OCD's influence.
- The psychological impact of making choices and how it can shift the narrative of OCD.
As always I hope you enjoy and find it helpful. If you have any questions, then please feel free to let me know.
Disclaimer:
Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.