Understanding Intrusive Thoughts — What They Are, Why They Happen
Intrusive thoughts are something that many people feel too ashamed to talk about — yet they are more common than you think. We believe that shedding light on these experiences can help people feel less isolated and more empowered to seek help.
Whether you're an expat adjusting to life in Korea or someone facing unexpected mental health challenges, understanding intrusive thoughts is the first step toward reclaiming peace of mind.
What Are Intrusive Thoughts?
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, involuntary thoughts, images, or ideas that can suddenly appear in your mind. These thoughts often feel disturbing, irrational, or even frightening. However, it is important to remember that they’re not a reflection of your true intentions or beliefs.
They might be:
Violent or aggressive thoughts
Inappropriate sexual ideas
Blasphemous or taboo images
Self-doubting or self-critical inner voices
For example:
A new parent might imagine accidentally harming their child.
A religious person might have sudden blasphemous thoughts during prayer.
Someone walking near a ledge might picture jumping — even though they have no intention to do so.
These experiences can be deeply unsettling, but they are not unusual or inherently dangerous
Why Do Intrusive Thoughts Happen?
Intrusive thoughts are often linked to anxiety, stress, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), PTSD, or trauma, but they can also occur in individuals without a diagnosed mental health condition.
Some causes include:
Elevated stress or life changes (such as relocation or loss)
Underlying anxiety or depression
Sleep deprivation
Neurochemical imbalances
Cultural suppression of emotional expression
From a psychological perspective, the brain sometimes "tests" boundaries or responds to suppressed emotions by generating taboo or alarming content. But this does not mean you’re dangerous or broken — it’s your mind trying to process internal tension.
How They Appear: Thoughts, Images, Scenarios
Intrusive thoughts don’t always come as words. They may manifest as:
Vivid mental images (e.g., hurting someone)
Imagined scenarios (e.g., being arrested or exposed)
Repetitive inner voices (e.g., “What if I snapped?”)
Some people experience just one disturbing thought that haunts them for days, while others may face a flood of repetitive thoughts, often tied to obsessive-compulsive patterns.
You Are Not Alone — Nearly Everyone Experiences Them
Studies show that over 90% of people experience intrusive thoughts at some point in their lives. Most don’t act on them and never will. In fact, the very distress they cause is often a sign that you don’t align with the content of the thought.
But because these thoughts can be taboo or scary, many people suffer in silence, assuming no one else could possibly relate. That silence breeds shame — and that’s where the real damage begins.
Intrusive Thoughts vs. Intentions: They Do Not Define You
A core principle in therapy regarding intrusive thoughts is:
“A thought is not an intention. A thought is not an action.”
Just because you have a violent or bizarre thought doesn’t mean you want to act on it. Intrusive thoughts are egodystonic — meaning they go against your values and sense of self.
At MindFlow, our psychologists help clients reframe and reduce the power of these thoughts using evidence-based approaches, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention).
Why Korean Culture May Silence These Conversations
In Korean society — and even more so for expats navigating Korean healthcare — mental health concerns are often hidden beneath layers of cultural stigma.
The idea of "saving face," pressure to appear strong, and limited access to English-speaking mental health professionals often prevent people from opening up. This silence can make intrusive thoughts feel more isolating and shameful than they need to be.
At MindFlow, we offer culturally sensitive support to help you talk through what’s often left unsaid.
When Should You Seek Help?
If intrusive thoughts are:
Persistent (they won’t go away)
Distressing (you feel shame, fear, or panic)
Interfering with daily life (sleep, work, relationships)
…then it’s time to talk to a professional.
At MindFlow, our lead psychologist, Dr. Audrey Kim offers a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your experience. She also works closely with our psychiatrist, Dr. Eun Hye Kim if medication or further assessment is needed.
