What is a common characteristic of intrusive thoughts in OCD?

The characteristic of intrusive thoughts in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that makes them so distressing is that they are intrusive and cause significant anxiety. These thoughts can be unwanted and often appear suddenly, evoking feelings of fear, guilt, or discomfort. Individuals with OCD may find that no matter how hard they try to push these thoughts away or rationalize them, they continue to occupy their mind, leading to heightened anxiety and distress. This aspect of OCD is what distinguishes it from other conditions—it's the intrusive nature of these thoughts, coupled with the intense emotional response they provoke, that defines the experience for those affected.

In contrast, intrusive thoughts that are rational and easy to dismiss would not typically align with the experience of someone dealing with OCD. Thoughts that occur in the absence of external stressors do not encapsulate the often pervasive nature of OCD-related anxiety. Additionally, intrusive thoughts associated with OCD are rarely pleasant or comforting; they tend to revolve around fears or obsessions that are inherently troubling to the individual. Thus, the defining feature here is the intensity of the anxiety these intrusive thoughts generate.