[mal566]

I've been trying to find a similar description of how I react to intrusive thoughts for a long time.

I'm unsure if it emerged as a coping mechanism or if I never associated the tics with the intrusive thoughts. It wasn't until I had a round of CBT I even realised why I was doing it. Like you, I'll make an out-of-context sound, click my tongue, roll my hands, double-tap my shoulder, etc.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for sharing this. I'm going to check out John's books this weekend.