Intrusive thought

An intrusive thought is an unwelcome, involuntary thought, image or idea that may become an obsession, is upsetting or distressing, and can feel difficult to manage or eliminate. When paired with conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, Tourette syndrome, depression, autism, body dysmorphic disorder and sometimes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, intrusive thoughts can become paralyzing, anxiety-provoking or persistent. They are also associated with episodic memory and with unwanted worries or memories arising from post-traumatic stress disorder, other anxiety disorders, eating disorders or psychosis. Intrusive thoughts, urges and images typically concern inappropriate things at inappropriate times and generally carry aggressive or sexual themes. The condition is worked within psychiatry and clinical psychology.