Intrusive thoughts : Why they happen and how to deal with them Occasionally, you’re minding our own business when a weird – and sometimes disturbing or upsetting – thought pops into your head. Why does your brain do this, and does it mean that you’re a bad person? Save 40% when you subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine! Intrusive thoughts are a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Learn more about common types of intrusive thoughts and the treatment options. Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, automatic, and often disturbing thoughts that pop into your mind. They can be a normal part of life, but they can also be a sign of anxiety, depression, or OCD. Learn about the types, causes, and how to cope with intrusive thoughts . Intrusive Thoughts : Definition , Causes, Types, and How to Overcome Intrusive Thoughts Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, involuntary thoughts that can be distressing or disturbing in nature. These thoughts often occur suddenly and may involve fears, doubts, violent images, or inappropriate scenarios that contradict an individual’s values and beliefs. While intrusive thoughts are common, persistent and distressing occurrences may indicate underlying psychological conditions. In the rest of ...