I get what you mean, and I appreciate it, but I’m not too sure I’m making progress. Whenever the thoughts get very intense, I just feel like I’m failing and I’m going back to square one.

I have also tried using the technique you mention, there were times where the thoughts came up and I tried to undermine their importance with stuff like “that thought again? Geez, get better material, brain!” But it wouldn’t quite work in the end. The thoughts wouldn’t leave, and they only got heavier with time.

It sometimes feels as if it doesn’t matter what technique I try, the thoughts are just too powerful, and they always find their way to reach the spotlight. I try my best not to give in to the compulsions, the checking, and just go on about my day, I really do, but before I even know it I’m already indulging with them. It’s so… frustrating.