An
intrusive thought is an unwelcome involuntary thought, image, or unpleasant idea that may become an
obsession, is upsetting or distressing, and can feel difficult to manage or eliminate. When such thoughts are associated with
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD),
depression,
body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and sometimes
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the thoughts may become paralyzing,
anxiety-provoking, or persistent. Intrusive thoughts may also be associated with
episodic memory, unwanted worries or memories from OCD,
posttraumatic stress disorder, other
anxiety disorders,
eating disorders, or
psychosis. Intrusive thoughts, urges, and images are of inappropriate things at inappropriate times, and generally have
aggressive,
sexual, or blasphemous themes.