Reassurance Seeking in OCD Worksheet PDF

What is the theory behind this Reassurance Seeking in OCD Worksheet PDF?

Seeking reassurance to gain some level of certainty in our everyday lives is a normal occurrence. But in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, this reassurance becomes so excessive that it begins to hinder one’s everyday functionality. They develop an unhealthy need to lessen their anxiety and distress by constantly seeking validation or certainty from others. They resort to repeated compulsions and rituals when they are unable to receive the level of certainty they were hoping for. 

How will the worksheet help?

This worksheet will help individuals seeking Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for their OCD diagnosis to become more observant of the triggers, and the underlying thoughts and emotions that accompany their reassurance behaviour. This is a crucial step in CBT for OCD as it provides vital information about the nature of the reassurance behaviour and also the maladaptive thoughts and emotions contributing to it. 

How to use the worksheet?

This worksheet can be used in the initial CBT sessions for individuals seeking help for their OCD. Instruct them to keep a daily log of the nature of their reassurance-seeking behaviour, the situation that triggered it and their thoughts and emotions at the time. At the end of the day, they can engage in a self-reflection exercise by writing about the impact of their behaviour on their day-to-day life. 

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