How Long Does De-Sensitization Take? (Episode 128)

Oct 3, 2025

This discussion dives into the nuanced journey of managing anxiety and OCD. The hosts suggest reframing recovery as desensitization, emphasizing that there's no universal timeline. They address how hard days are part of progress and why self-compassion matters. Listener stories inspire, showcasing real-life achievements in the face of anxiety. Urgency can hinder growth, while curiosity and patience can empower individuals. Ultimately, the conversation reassures that progress is personal and often non-linear.

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INSIGHT

Desensitization Beats 'Recovery' As A Goal

Desensitization is a more useful goal than a one-time notion of recovery.
Desensitization means noticing a scary thought or feeling and returning to what you were doing without urgent fixing.

ADVICE

Define What A 'Hard Day' Means

Do define what a 'hard day' means for you and track progress against that definition.
Do notice that today's hard day often looks very different and less severe than a hard day a year ago.

ANECDOTE

Trip To London With Anxiety Present

Helen travelled to London and did medical tests while anxious and succeeded.
She noticed fewer adrenaline spikes and accepted anxiety would come and go.

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One of the most common questions we hear from people working through anxiety disorders and OCD is: "How long is this going to take?" In this episode, Drew and Josh tackle the timeline question head-on—but probably not in the way you're expecting.

We explore why asking "how long until I recover?" might be the wrong question, and why shifting to "how long until I'm desensitized?" can be a game-changer in how you approach your anxiety journey. We discuss the reality that there's no universal timeline, no magic number of weeks, and why that's actually okay.

In this episode:

Why the concept of "recovery" as a finish line may not be helpful for anxiety disorders
The difference between recovery and desensitization
How urgency and pressure can actually slow your progress
Why some people seem to progress faster than others (and why that doesn't matter)
The role of self-compassion, patience, and realistic expectations
Why hard days are a normal part of the process—even after significant progress
How perfectionism and the need for certainty can keep you stuck

We also share inspiring "Did It Anyway" stories from listeners who are moving forward with their lives—traveling, attending events, and even jumping into mosh pits—alongside their anxiety, not waiting for it to disappear first.

Whether you're struggling with panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, health anxiety, or other anxiety disorders, this episode offers a realistic, compassionate perspective on what it means to make progress and why the journey looks different for everyone.

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