What is False Memory OCD?
by Katherine Pica LCSW
What is False Memory OCD?
Your eyes flicker open, and you throw the covers off. Your thoughts are haunting you. Before you even realize it, you’re out of bed, pacing back and forth in your bedroom. You can’t seem to remember exactly what happened last night. You remember talking to friends and even getting to know a few people you’ve never met before.
Did anything else happen?
Did anything more happen?
Did I cheat on my partner?
If only you could rewind and go back to that moment. You’re pretty sure nothing happened, but your thoughts leave you to believe otherwise. How can you be certain?
This is one of the many examples of false memory OCD. If you’re scratching your head wondering what the heck that is. Let’s learn more about false memory OCD.
What is False Memory OCD?
False Memory OCD is a type of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) that can leave individuals doubting some of their memories, especially relating to past events. Those who experience false memory OCD often doubt themselves and may even start to believe that they’ve done something wrong, even if they have no evidence or reason to believe that. An individual with false memory OCD will lead themselves to believe that because they think they did something wrong, it must be true. They will start to convince themselves that they wouldn’t be thinking that way unless a certain situation occurred.
Examples of False Memory OCD
Depending on the situation, false memory OCD can bring on feelings of anxiety, shame, and isolation.
Here are a few examples of false memory OCD:
Did I leave a restaurant before paying for my meal?
Did my child fall down the stairs, or did I push them?
If I’m thinking about this, it has to be true.
Did I cheat on my partner
Did I interrupt my coworker when they were speaking to me?
Did I accidentally tell an offensive joke to a friend yesterday?
Compulsions of False Memory OCD
In order to find temporary relief for these intrusive and unwanted thoughts, individuals with false OCD will still act out compulsions as a temporary form of relief for their symptoms.
Here are a few examples of the compulsions that someone with false memory OCD may act on:
Avoidance or self-isolation
A mental replay of certain events, situations, and interactions
Seeking reassurance from loved ones in order to feel validated
Distract or suppress any obsessive thoughts
Repeat mantras to convince themselves they didn’t do what their thoughts are telling them they did
Confessing to crimes or actions that they never committed because they truly believe they are guilty and in the wrong
Physical checks of the scene where the negative thought occurred so they can try to retrace their steps and better understand what may have occurred
OCD therapist for False Memory OCD
Just because False memory OCD does not seem like it’ s the typical type of OCD does not mean that it is too hard to treat. The great news is that treatment for this type of OCD is very similar. SOmetimes it can be tricky to spot because an individual may actually believe that their thoughts are true rather than being a symptom or factor of false memory OCD.
Even though false memory OCD is hard to have to go through, it is treatable. Just like traditional OCD and its subtypes, Exposure Response Therapy (ERP) is one of the best treatment options for those experiencing false memory OCD.
San Diego Therapist for False Memory OCD
If you or someone you love is struggling with memories or negative thoughts, reach out to me today to set up a consultation. I have worked with many individuals over the years who have struggled with false memory OCD. If you think you have false memory OCD I can help evaluate your symptoms to see what it is you are experiencing. If it is a false memory OCD, or any other type of OCD you are in good hands. I have helped many overcome the grip OCD has on their lives and can help you learn tools and skills too.
How to find OCD treatment near me?
No matter what type of OCD you are struggling with , you’re not alone, and help is available to you. We specialize in OCD treatment and are trained in evidence based measures to help you! Reach out to us today to set up a consultation.
