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why98
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Default Jul 31, 2021 at 06:05 PM
  #1
How do you experience paranoia versus worry? How can you tell the difference?

I go through a lot of periods where I think my coworkers hate me and are trying to get me fired. My brain is on the constant lookout for proof. The fears affect everything I do. The thoughts cause a ton of anxiety and ruminating and fear. I want to sleep forever to escape the thoughts.

During the time where I'm not completely consumed with the thoughts, I realize that other people don't think about me that much. They're busy living their own complicated lives. Those rational thoughts don't last for long.

What if things that are happening point to the idea that they're trying to get my fired? Or what if these things are not happening and I'm being paranoid? How do you know if the bad things are actually true? It's not like I can ask one of these people if my thoughts are true.
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Default Aug 02, 2021 at 12:45 PM
  #2
That's a good question. I've gone through periods when I was working when I thought people were trying to get me fired--in one instance it was true. But it's good you are questioning your perceptions which may be all you can do right now.

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Default Oct 23, 2021 at 08:16 PM
  #3
Tbh, I find that paranoia is something that you believe firmly versus worrying can be a bit rationalized - even if the “paranoid thought” is true.
I like to question myself like a reporter: “why would that be the case?” “What proof do I have?” “Do other people think this way, or is a symptom of my illness?”
I’ve never been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder per se but I’ve been around people who do experience it and the paranoia is typically firm in its belief
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