Anxiety in Context

Jealousy

What Is “Retroactive Jealousy” and Is It Really OCD?

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on June 2, 2026

Here's what we know about "retroactive jealousy," a term for intrusive and painful thoughts about a partner's romantic or sexual past that has gained legitimacy online.

Here's what we know about "retroactive jealousy," a term for intrusive and painful thoughts about a partner's romantic or sexual past that has gained legitimacy online.

OCD

When Relationship Doubts Are a Sign of OCD

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on May 1, 2026

Learn to distinguish normal relationship doubts from relationship OCD.

Learn to distinguish normal relationship doubts from relationship OCD.

OCD

Dispelling Myths About ERP for OCD

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on February 26, 2025

Drawing from an article by expert researchers, I unpack common myths and misunderstandings about exposure and response (or ritual) prevention for OCD.

Drawing from an article by expert researchers, I unpack common myths and misunderstandings about exposure and response (or ritual) prevention for OCD.

OCD

Is Medication Needed to Treat Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on December 9, 2024

A new study supports previous research that exposure and response prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder is effective, with or without psychiatric medication.

A new study supports previous research that exposure and response prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder is effective, with or without psychiatric medication.

OCD

The Potential of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for OCD

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on August 8, 2024

A new review study suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapy may be helpful for people with OCD, especially if it's followed with exposure and response prevention.

A new review study suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapy may be helpful for people with OCD, especially if it's followed with exposure and response prevention.

Depression

Savoring Positive Experiences

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on March 4, 2024

Enjoying the nice moments in life can take some practice and intention. Otherwise, you may end up only seeing joy in your rearview mirror.

Enjoying the nice moments in life can take some practice and intention. Otherwise, you may end up only seeing joy in your rearview mirror.

Anxiety

You Can’t Think Your Way Out of Worry

Brian Thompson Ph.D. on October 30, 2023

It takes practice, but here are some tips for getting out of unhelpful worrying.

It takes practice, but here are some tips for getting out of unhelpful worrying.