#127 - Mentally Reviewing As A Compulsion in OCD and Anxiety

#127 - Mentally Reviewing As A Compulsion in OCD and Anxiety

Author: Jenna Overbaugh May 25, 2023 Duration: 15:26

In this episode, I discuss one of the most common rituals and safety behaviors in OCD and anxiety: mental review. While we all engage in the process of mentally reviewing old conversations and past events from time to time, when you have OCD and anxiety, this process can feel uncontrollable and lead to significant impairment and distress.


I also talk about..

  • Examples of mental review and why giving into this behavior actually makes your OCD and anxiety worse over time
  • What to do instead of mentally reviewing and how to become more aware of it in the moment
  • Quick tips and strategies to feel overall more in control of your compulsions, even mental ones

Like this episode? Check out some of my similar content:

Podcast: What is "Pure O" and does it exist?

Podcast: How to Sit With Uncertainty for OCD?

Blog: 2 Sneaky Compulsions You are Probably Doing


Check out my website at www.jennaoverbaughlpc.com

Find me on Instagram and TikTok @jenna.overbaugh

Browse my masterclasses here.

Click here to sign up for my free email newsletter and download your instant recovery PDF (https://www.jennaoverbaughlpc.com/freebie)


Remember: this podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as mental health or medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional advice of your own professional mental health or medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical or mental health professional before trying or implementing any information read here. I am not acting as your therapist or mental health professional and this is not therapeutic advice. My goal is to provide you with options, resources, and information to make an informed decision regarding your mental health.

© 2023 Jenna Overbaugh, LLC


Jenna Overbaugh has spent over fifteen years as a therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety, and she brings that deep, practical experience directly into each episode of All The Hard Things. This isn't about abstract theory; it's about the daily, tangible work of reclaiming your life from the grip of fear and intrusive thoughts. Jenna's voice is a steadying presence, offering a blend of professional insight and genuine compassion that feels like a conversation with a trusted guide. You'll hear actionable strategies for facing the challenges that feel overwhelming, whether they're related to mental patterns, physical wellness, or simply moving through a world that can feel too loud. The podcast serves as an audio companion for anyone tired of feeling held back, providing clarity on how to navigate exposure, sit with discomfort, and build resilience. It’s a space where the hard things-the necessary things-are broken down into manageable steps with encouragement and without judgment. Tune in for honest discussions that demystify therapy concepts, highlight personal victories, and reinforce that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Through this podcast, Jenna extends her practice beyond the office, creating a resource that feels both personal and profoundly useful for anyone on a path toward greater mental and emotional freedom.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

All The Hard Things
Podcast Episodes
#150 - The Transformation: Your Ritual Prevention Roadmap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:18
In this episode, I share with you the 2nd part of my 3 part course, The OCD and Anxiety Recovery Blueprint. I talk about ... Why The Transformation is my favorite part of The Blueprint What you can learn from The Transfo…
#149 - The Foundation: Stopping the Cycle of OCD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:55
In this episode, I talk to you about the first course within The OCD and Anxiety Recovery Blueprint journey: The Foundation. I share with you ... - What to expect from The Foundation - Lesson Titles & Descriptions - Who…
#148 - Behind The Scenes of The OCD and Anxiety Recovery Blueprint [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:33
In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my new digital and self paced course called The OCD and Anxiety Recovery Blueprint. I go over ... - how I came up with The Blueprint - my money back guarantee - my promise…
#147 - The Backdoor Spike and Morphing OCD Themes with Krista [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:46
In this episode, I'm joined by joined by fellow OCD advocate and warrior, Krista, who shares her story about relationship OCD, postpartum OCD, and more. We discuss.. - how her OCD has morphed from theme to theme over tim…
#146 - The Difficulties of Postpartum OCD with Molly Vasa Bertolucci [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:23
In this episode, I'm joined by Molly Vasa Bertolucci, a licensed clinical social worker who has also experienced postpartum OCD. We discuss.. - what OCD felt like for her during her postpartum experience - the ways in wh…
#145 - Conquering Postpartum OCD Not Once But Twice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:58
In this episode, I'm joined by Torey, an OCD advocate and mom who overcame postpartum OCD - not once but twice. We discuss.. - Her first experience with postpartum OCD, harm intrusive thoughts, and eventually going to an…
#144 - Overcoming Panic and OCD Head On with Nathalie Gonzalez [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:08
In this episode, I'm joined by Nathalie, an OCD advocate who came on the podcast to share her story with panic, suicidal OCD, and more. We discuss.. - doing exposures on her own prior to starting therapy - the importance…
#142 - Conquering Contamination OCD with Helene Jafine [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:51
In this episode, I'm joined by Helene Jafine, an OCD advocate who is overcoming contamination OCD. We discuss.. - how boxing has helped with her OCD - how COVID set her back a few years in terms of her recovery - the imp…