Obsessive intrusive magical thinking is a specific type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) characterized by pervasive and irrational beliefs related to magical or supernatural elements. It involves obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors centered around magical thinking, which is the belief that one's thoughts or actions can influence events or outcomes in ways that defy logical explanation. People experiencing obsessive intrusive magical thinking often have intense and irrational fears or beliefs about causing harm to themselves or others through their thoughts or actions. They may believe that certain rituals, vows, or specific behaviors can prevent negative events or bring about positive outcomes. Some common examples include excessive handwashing, repeating certain phrases, or avoiding specific activities or places believed to bring bad luck. These intrusive thoughts and beliefs can consume a person's daily life, causing distress and interfering with their ability to function normally.
The first thing to know about writer Marianne Eloise’s debut, Obsessive Intrusive Magical Thinking, is that it’s not a self-help book. She didn’t anticipate having to specify that, but the collection of essays about obsessions through the eyes of an autistic woman with OCD and ADHD, has mistakenly been interpreted as a guide to living your best, neurodivergent life. While Eloise wishes she had all the answers, “I can’t even help myself,” she laughs nervously. But she’s trying.
In three sections obsessive, intrusive, and magical thinking , the essays are segmented by their subject matter and tone, oscillating from dark to light and back again. Its tacky shorthands the hand washing, the germaphobia, the clean freaks have made their way into everything, from Buzzfeed listicles to The Big Bang Theory.
These intrusive thoughts and beliefs can consume a person's daily life, causing distress and interfering with their ability to function normally. They may spend significant amounts of time engaging in compulsions or rituals to satisfy their fears or prevent harmful events from occurring. In severe cases, individuals may become socially isolated or unable to maintain normal relationships due to the preoccupation with their magical thinking.
Obsessive Intrusive Magical Thinking
In this incandescent debut, journalist Eloise explores the nuances of being neurodivergent through a captivating mix of personal essays and cultural criticism. Eloise was diagnosed with OCD in her teens and later ADHD, autism, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that causes chronic pain. Starting with her childhood in the U.K., she revisits the fixations that “destroyed and sustained” her—from journaling in the 2000s as a young girl “to make time more elastic” to shoplifting in her teens and romanticizing Los Angeles, where she moved as an adult to pursue a writing career. As she lithely moves through time, she conveys her passion for art, nature, and pop culture: finding refuge from the “constraints” of her body and mind in the “weightlessness” of water, and begrudgingly accepting her love of Disneyland in “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Fantasy” (“against all logic. I have become the thing I feared: a Disney Adult”). In “I Am Old Now, But I Wasn’t Then” a discussion about her obsession with mortality occasions a sharp analysis of the history of witchcraft to unpack cultural anxieties about death. Throughout, Eloise’s wit and grace cast her differences in a dazzling light: “Understanding that. my brain is wired differently, has been key to not only knowing myself but also liking her a little bit, too.” The result is a rewarding navigation through the corridors of a relentlessly curious mind. (July)
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It is important to note that these beliefs and behaviors are not based on reality or supported by scientific evidence. However, for those experiencing obsessive intrusive magical thinking, the thoughts and fears are very real and can lead to significant anxiety and distress. It is not uncommon for individuals to recognize the irrationality of their thoughts but still feel compelled to engage in the associated compulsions to alleviate their anxiety. Obsessive intrusive magical thinking can be treated through a combination of therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals challenge and change their irrational beliefs and thoughts. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is another commonly used approach that involves gradually exposing individuals to situations that trigger their obsessions and preventing them from engaging in the associated compulsions. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may also be prescribed to help manage the anxiety and obsessive thoughts associated with OCD, including obsessive intrusive magical thinking. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. Overall, obsessive intrusive magical thinking can have a significant impact on an individual's life, causing distress and interfering with daily functioning. However, with appropriate treatment and support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and regain control over their thoughts and behaviors..
Reviews for "Strategies for Challenging and Replacing Obsessive Intrusive Magical Thoughts"
1. Emily - 1/5 stars - "Obsessive intrusive magical thinking was not my cup of tea. I found the plot to be confusing and disjointed, with too many subplots that didn't seem to connect. The characters were also poorly developed, making it difficult for me to feel any connection or sympathy towards them. Overall, I was left disappointed and frustrated by this book and would not recommend it to others."
2. Tom - 2/5 stars - "While I appreciate the author's attempt at incorporating magical elements into the story, I felt that it was poorly executed in Obsessive intrusive magical thinking. The magic seemed forced and out of place, without proper explanation or context. Additionally, the pacing of the book was incredibly slow, making it a struggle to stay engaged. Overall, I found this book to be underwhelming and would not read it again."
3. Jessica - 2/5 stars - "Obsessive intrusive magical thinking was not what I expected. The writing style was confusing and hard to follow, often jumping between different perspectives without warning. I also felt that the characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth. The premise of the book had potential, but it fell short in its execution. I personally did not enjoy this book and would not recommend it."