The OCD & Anxiety Podcast

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 371 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast – the treasure trove of striking insights, and empowering knowledge on dealing with OCD and Anxiety. Today, we embark on an exploration journey, aiming to comprehend the positive implications of exercising on our mental health. We delve into a recently published research study undertaken by Australia’s leading university. The promising study lends credibility to the fact that physical activities have profound effects on tackling disorders like anxiety and depression. We decode the findings of this research, expounding on how the inclusion of physical activities in treatment plans can lead to remarkable improvements. Focusing on my personal experiences, I elucidate the advantages of regular exercising when dealing with OCD. Physical exercise, while it may not be a complete solution, plays a crucial role in altering our hormonal responses, changing our mindset, and, most importantly, making us embrace life with a lighter perspective. These beneficial impacts of regular exercising help us to effectively deal with the whirls of OCD. Moreover, we highlight the results of an extensive meta-analysis undertaken by the University of South Australia that included over 100,000 participants. The study underscores the potency of physical activities in alleviating the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and distress. More importantly, it advocates for the adoption of exercising as a primary treatment for these disorders. The research establishes that even short-term workouts can bring about significant changes. It points out that high-intensity workouts generate better improvements in depression and anxiety, while medium-length exercises tend to have more effective results compared to long-duration ones. The research emphasizes that variations of exercising - incorporating activities like walking, resistance training, pilates, or yoga - can all contribute to enhancing mental health. As we arrive at the end of this exploration journey, the realization dawns upon us that while exercises may not be the ultimate panacea, they indeed make the symptoms of OCD easier to manage. They bring positivity, elevate confidence, and subdue anxiety levels, thus equipping us better to confront and overcome the challenges thrust upon us by OCD. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that any decision to incorporate exercises should be preceded by a discussion with your doctor or healthcare expert. It’s pivotal to combine exercising with the ongoing medical treatments, rather than considering it as an alternative. Always remember, every step towards regular exercising is a step towards better mental health. REFERENCES https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/18/1203 https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2023/exercise-more-effective-than-medicines-to-manage-mental-health/ https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/02/230223193417.htm Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.        

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Stand tall against the 'Comparisons' thief that steals your joy. In episode 370 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, we delve into the world of OCD and how comparisons might aggravate the condition. Discover the negative influence of your inner critic's constant nagging and judgment, often centered around comparison, and learn to lessen its controlling grip. From the host's personal experiences and observations to Theodore Roosevelt's wise words, "Comparison is the thief of joy," we embark on a journey, understanding how comparison can mar self-esteem and escalate anxiety disorders or OCD. Furthermore, we spotlight the divisive role social media often plays, exploiting your vulnerabilities, and triggering exacerbating comparison habits. As we traverse through each aspect, we also focus on nurturing self-compassion as a positive counterweight to comparison. Value and learn from self-assessments without succumbing to negative self-judgment. Practice recognizing your involvement in undesirable comparisons and choose better alternatives, focusing on present moments, and spurring healthier habits. This episode aims to provide the tools to change the narrative about OCD and your life, strengthening your capacity for self-compassion, and finding joy in your unique journey. Join us to break free from the chains of comparisons and live life on your terms. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.      

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 369 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, a platform that inspires a more positive relationship with anxiety disorders and provides insights on overcoming the control of fear in one's life. In this episode, we unpack the crucial aspect of motivation in overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Discover how easy it is to misplace motivation into unhelpful thoughts and actions, resulting in a cyclic battle with OCD that people often fight silently. Yet, it is essential to realize that you're diverting your energy resources into the wrong path. Explore anecdotes from different people who have confronted and overcome OCD, provided as directional signposts to keep you moving forward. You'll also hear about practical suggestions such as reading inspirational autobiographies and real-life stories of victory over adversity. Delve into the underlying principle of forming sustainable habits to conserve motivation resources. By transforming vital OCD management techniques and exposure activities into regular practices, coping with OCD becomes less tiresome and more automated. Learn how to ensure your focus remains on the proper path. Remember that recovery involves acknowledging fear while continuing to live out personal values and ambitions. Enjoy this guided exploration on leveraging motivation to free yourself from OCD's grip. And should you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to get in touch. The podcast is available on Instagram, YouTube, and Patreon, where you can drop your questions or comments. Also, visit the official website, robertjamescoaching.com, to book a free session and commence your journey towards freedom from OCD and anxiety Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.      

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 368 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast where we delve into the question - Is distraction always bad for OCD? Tune in as host, anxiety coach Robert James, takes an enlightening look at the power of positive distraction, mindful attention, and the concept of the 'flow state'. Robert reflects on these themes by quoting renowned psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and sharing his own insights on the benefits of engaging in activities that challenge us just enough to completely absorb our attention - a state known as flow. Here we not only gain relief from fear and rumination, but also experience the fullness of our lives, bringing us closer to our values and interests inside of our obsessions and compulsions. However, while positive, healthy distraction can be a potent tool against OCD, it's equally crucial to be wary of unhealthy forms that involve incessantly keeping busy or forcefully suppressing fears which, in turn, often exacerbates anxiety and exhaustion. Join us to understand how to wield 'mindful distractions' that are aligned with what’s truly important to us, how to bring more compassion to your process and turn your struggles with OCD around. Inspiring, informative, and eye-opening, this episode reminds us about the strength in positive distraction and the potential it holds in helping you reclaim your life from OCD Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.    

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Welcome to Episode 367 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of reassurance seeking, a common compulsion in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In this episode, we discuss how reassurance seeking can manifest in various forms, making it imperative to recognize and understand it to eliminate this prevalent compulsion. We share strategies to spot compulsions, including journaling and mindfulness, which can counter the draining cycle of reassurance seeking. Learning to tolerate uncertainty and discomfort, subsequently fostering self-compassion and assurance, are key steps to breaking this cycle. A better understanding of how reassurance seeking perpetuates and sometimes exacerbates OCD symptoms, straining personal relationships and reducing self-confidence, will often lead to healthier coping mechanisms. Demonstrating how reassurance seeking can be a trap, we explore both its obvious and subtle manifestations. Tackling techniques to identify and transform reassurance seeking behaviour, we delve into the practice of tuning into emotional states to better arm oneself against the relentless storm of OCD. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.    

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com     Welcome to Episode 366 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast by Robert James Coaching. In this episode, we delve into the often-critical role of compassionate courage in managing and overcoming OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and anxiety. We unravel the concept of self-compassion in facing the often-debilitating effects of OCD and anxiety. Many of us tend to fall into the trap of self-judgment and negativity, especially under the grip of OCD. Striking a balance between acceptance and compassion for ourselves can turn this around. Self-compassion is a verb, an active pursuit that can significantly alter our perspective, shaping it to be more positive and forgiving. This episode also highlights quotes from profound thinkers like Thich Nhat Hanh, who emphasizes that compassion is an action. We also discuss Jack Cornfield's words of wisdom about the non-judgmental 'heart of compassion.' We explore how practicing self-compassion is akin to stepping into a hero's journey, where we acknowledge the challenges, face them head-on, and grow from our experiences in dealing with OCD. Moreover, it is completely okay to have setbacks and mistakes along the way. These can actually be learning opportunities when viewed through the lens of compassion. The 'ancient heart of compassion’, as Cornfield phrases it, is the gateway to freedom which involves allowing ourselves to feel and process our difficult emotions and thoughts. This podcast endorses patience in this journey to wellness, shedding light on how adopting self-compassion can lead you towards a better, fulfilling life despite OCD and anxiety. Through the course of this episode, we look at dealing with OCD from varied angles and explore different approaches like exposure work, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness techniques. In essence, this podcast underscores the importance of self-compassion and courage in acknowledging, facing, managing, and learning from our struggles with OCD. It illustrates how transforming this compassion into action can lead to authentic happiness and personal growth Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.  

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com     Welcome to the 365th episode of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, where we explore how to develop a healthier relationship with anxiety disorders. In this episode, your host - Robert James engages in a friendly chat about OCD and anxiety while sitting comfortably with his feet-warming friend, Bruno the dog. This episode focuses on how to tackle Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety without 'physically' undoing it. Often, getting over OCD involves a level of acceptance and a willingness to embrace uncertainty as we let go of constantly trying to 'fix' it thereby unraveling the 'knot' of OCD. Robert provides insights on how to improve mental health by implementing techniques such as acceptance and commitment therapy. Robert uses the metaphor of the 'monkey knot' to illustrate OCD, detailing how trying to problem solve our way out of it can inadvertently result in a complex knot that ties us down. Self-compassion, acceptance, and understanding that we determine our own mental states are important tools to navigate these challenging emotions. Further in the episode, Robert discusses the importance of finding your own serenity even in tumultuous emotional seas. This involves going deeper within yourself using tools such as the breath, meditation, and mindfulness to find that space of calm. He also emphasizes the importance of focusing on your values, embracing difficult emotions, and reorienting your attention away from the anxieties that dominate your thoughts. In conclusion, Robert encourages compassion for oneself and the cultivation of emotional flexibility through the process of letting difficult emotions ebb and flow without attempting to immediately resolve them. He underscores the significance of refocusing our energies on aspects of life that contribute to our holistic well-being and emotional health. The episode ends with a reminder that any material viewed or information listened to on any platform is for informational purposes only, and should not replace professional medical or mental health advice. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences. .

Join Robert in the 364th episode of 'The OCD and Anxiety Podcast' featuring an engaging conversations with Dr. Stephen Whiteside, a distinguished clinical psychologist and director of the Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Program at Mayo Clinic. The focus of this episode is the vital, yet often overlooked area of OCD and anxiety in children. Dr. Whiteside and Robert delve into prevalent OCD themes in children such as contamination fears and how treatments differ between adults and children. The conversation illuminates on the essential role of exposure therapy and the challenges of managing mental health in the young population, especially in the current era of pervasive social media and global pandemic. Also, Dr. Whiteside discusses his invaluable book, 'Anxiety Coach: A Parent's Guide to Treating Childhood Anxiety and OCD', offering profound insights to parents on understanding and maneuvering through the complexities of their child's anxiety or OCD. The discussion advocates the power of children and parents working together as a team to combat OCD and anxiety conclusively. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this enlightening episode will provide you with practical solutions and hope for a healthier, anxiety-free future for the children in your life. Explore show notes for more details about Dr. Whiteside and his insightful book, starting the journey to liberate your child from the clutches of fear. You can find Dr Stepens book here: https://www.amazon.com/Mayo-Clinic-Anxiety-Coach-Groundbreaking/dp/B0BQMJNXR3/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1707566336&refinements=p_27%3AStephen+P.+Whiteside&s=books&sr=1-2 Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.          

Delve into the complexities of OCD and overthinking in the brain. Learn about the roles of the prefrontal cortex and amygdala in triggering stress. Find out how rumination affects neurotransmitters and cognitive function. Discover the power of mindfulness in overcoming intrusive thoughts and anxiety.

http://www.robertjamescoaching.com/contact Welcome to the 362nd episode of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, your supportive platform for discussing and navigating anxiety disorders. This episode zeroes in on effective strategies for breaking the relentless cycle of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We explore how OCD, a relentless intruder, disrupts daily routines and creates a perpetual cycle of thought, anxiety, and compulsion, leading to temporary relief. However, we emphasize the integral truth: you are not a prisoner to OCD. We delve into the concept of choice. An essential starting point to regain control of our lives is consciously choosing helpful actions that align with our values, swapping old habits for healthier ones that guide us in facing our anxieties rather than letting OCD lead. Our discussions highlight the significance of allowing ourselves to accept and fully experience all our emotions, rather than selectively numbing the difficult ones. We lean on the words of Brene Brown in "The Gifts of Imperfection", underlining that numbing the painful emotions invariably results in the numbing of positive ones as well. Dealing with OCD begins with understanding that it's healthy to not incessantly pursue happiness. On this journey, acceptance plays a paradoxical role. Acknowledging and facing our struggle is what ultimately leads to genuine progress. By loosening the grip OCD has on our lives, we open ourselves to new possibilities and a better quality of life. Do join us to gain a deeper understanding of dealing with OCD and improve your life. Remember, we're here for you, and we would love to hear your thoughts. We also have a growing YouTube channel full of helpful content. Please note, however, that our podcast and services should never substitute professional medical or mental health advice Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.