Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts - Chronic Dizziness Recovery

Dealing with intrusive thoughts

During my time with PPPD & mdDS, I had to deal with so many intrusive thoughts that would feel completely real. These thoughts would be along the lines of “what if I never get better?“ or “you shouldn’t even try to do anything because it won’t help.” For the first two years I let those thoughts run the show completely. Most of my time was spent in my bedroom, so my world got increasingly small. I wish I hadn’t avoided so much in the beginning, but I didn’t know any better.

For now, it may feel extremely challenging to try and change your thoughts, because it will go against everything you’ve been doing so far. It will feel unnatural and you may feel like there’s no point in trusting yourself.

First steps:

Catch yourself whenever you notice these thoughts popping up. Try and rephrase these thoughts and instead ask “what if it all works out?” 

“What if I go to the grocery store and come home and it’s actually not too bad? And even if it is bad I know how to deal with it because I’ve dealt with it before.”

Remember that you will not make the condition worse by trying new things. It may trigger the dizziness for a while because it’s something new that the brain isn’t used to anymore, but you are not damaging yourself. These intrusive thoughts are your subconscious mind trying to keep you “safe”. They are not you. You are the one observing these thoughts, meaning you are actually the one in control.

I believe in you.

If you are struggling with this, don’t hesitate to reach out for coaching.