The considered wisdom in positive psychology is that to feel better, you just need to think happy thoughts. If this conjures up the song “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” then you’re on the right track.

Intrusive thoughts are a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a mental health condition in which a person experiences involuntary obsessions and compulsions that may cause distress.

It is not uncommon to hear an OCD sufferer make a comment such as “OCD thoughts are ruining my life,” or “I have to get rid of these thoughts!” This refrain is echoed by many of my clients who lament ...