Is it obligatory to completely disregard all intrusive thoughts in all areas, and is it forbidden to dwell on them?

Ignoring intrusive thoughts (waswas) is the optimal treatment for getting rid of them. Whoever fails to do so brings toil and misery upon themselves and places themselves in difficulty. Ignoring intrusive thoughts is among the most highly recommended acts for those afflicted by them, and it may even reach the level of obligation in some cases. A Muslim must not dwell on intrusive thoughts or give them attention, because by doing so, they only harm themselves.