Today we’re going to look at something that OCD quietly changes over time.

Avoidance.

When a thought, feeling, or situation triggers anxiety, the brain naturally wants to move away from it. Avoiding, escaping, or neutralizing discomfort can bring short-term relief — but over time it teaches the brain that the situation really was dangerous.

And the alarm system stays active.

On Day 3, we’re introducing an important shift: approaching instead of avoiding.

This doesn’t mean forcing yourself into overwhelming situations. It means beginning to understand how gently facing the things OCD has been warning you about can help your brain learn something new.

Inside today’s lesson you’ll find:

• One short educational video
• A fillable workbook PDF
• Reflection prompts to help you identify where avoidance may be showing up

Start with the video, then move through the workbook at your own pace. Today is simply about recognizing the role avoidance plays in the OCD cycle.

You’re not expected to change everything today. Awareness and curiosity are enough.

Remember: this challenge is a psycho-educational program designed to help you build skills, not therapy or medical care. If you are in crisis or experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please seek immediate support. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Today we’re not trying to eliminate anxiety.

We’re beginning to understand how approaching fear helps retrain the alarm system.

 Access Day 3 here: