Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts: A CBT-Based Guide to Getting Over Frightening, Obsessive, or Disturbing Thoughts

by Sally M. Winston PsyD

Figure 1 shows the whoosh of fear people feel when the amygdala is triggered. The trigger might be the car coming toward you or the sudden sound of your friend yelling “Boo!” The whoosh response happens very, very quickly.