Reacting verbally to intrusive thoughts and embarrassing memories is a common response for some individuals. There are a few reasons why this happens:
Emotional Intensity: Intrusive thoughts and embarrassing memories can trigger strong emotional reactions, such as shame, guilt, fear, or embarrassment. Verbalizing these emotions might be a way for the person to release some of the pent-up tension and process what they're feeling.
Coping Mechanism: Verbalizing intrusive thoughts or embarrassing memories can serve as a coping mechanism. By expressing these thoughts out loud, the person might be trying to externalize them, making them feel less overwhelming and giving them a sense of control over the situation.
Self-Comfort: Some people might talk to themselves as a form of self-soothing. By saying comforting or reassuring words out loud, they may try to alleviate the distress caused by the intrusive thoughts or memories.
External Validation: Verbalizing their experiences may be a way for individuals to seek external validation or reassurance from others. They might hope that by sharing their thoughts or memories, someone else will reassure them that they are not alone or that their thoughts are not as unusual as they might think.
Habitual Response: Over time, responding verbally to intrusive thoughts or embarrassing memories can become a habitual behavior. The brain might establish a pattern of verbalizing thoughts in response to certain triggers, making it a default reaction.
Social Anxiety: In some cases, people may vocalize their thoughts or memories due to social anxiety. The fear of judgment or being perceived negatively might lead them to "test" how others would react to their thoughts or memories.
It's important to note that while verbalizing thoughts or memories can be a natural response, it may not always be the most helpful or productive way to cope with them, especially if it perpetuates distress or interferes with daily life. If you or someone you know is experiencing significant distress due to intrusive thoughts or embarrassing memories, seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can be beneficial. They can help explore coping strategies, provide guidance, and work on managing these thoughts in a healthier manner.