21. Somatic OCD

In Episode 21, Somatic OCD, we explore the experience of becoming hyper-focused on physical sensations, bodily symptoms, and automatic processes such as breathing, swallowing, blinking, or heartbeat awareness. We look at why these sensations can begin to feel intrusive and distressing, and how attention and monitoring magnify the obsession over time.In this episode, I explain the role of compulsions in somatic OCD, including checking, analysing, reassurance seeking, and attempts to force or control bodily sensations. We also explore why the more attention we give these sensations, the more prominent and threatening they can begin to feel.Drawing from both professional experience and lived experience with anxiety, this episode is designed to help people better understand the cycle behind somatic obsessions and begin stepping out of it.Keywords:somatic OCD, sensorimotor OCD, bodily sensations anxiety, breathing OCD, swallowing OCD, hyperawareness anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD recovery, Pure O, anxiety disorder, anxiety therapist, anxiety podcast, compulsions, threat response, somatic obsessions