Getting Unhooked from Tough Thoughts | Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions Worksheet

This fishing themed worksheet helps children recognize intrusive or distressing thoughts, identify the urge that follows, and practice responding without immediately checking, avoiding, repeating, seeking reassurance, or trying to make something feel “just right.”

Children are guided through five steps to notice what hooked their attention, rate the strength of the urge, consider other possible explanations, choose a helpful statement, and select a coping strategy from their tackle box.