Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a widely misunderstood mental health disorder. Many people think it’s just about being extremely neat and organized. However, this is far from the truth. OCD is a serious mental health disorder that goes much deeper than a preference for tidiness. In this blog, we will explore the common misconceptions about OCD, what the condition entails, and how understanding it better can help support those who experience it.

What is OCD?

OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It is a psychological disorder defined by:

• Obsessions – Intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or stress. These thoughts often feel uncontrollable and persistent.
• Compulsions – Repetitive actions or mental rituals carried out to alleviate obsessions. These actions are meant to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions, even temporarily.

For example, someone with OCD might have an obsessive fear of germs and engage in excessive hand washing (a compulsion) to feel clean and safe.

Misconceptions About OCD

1.  “OCD only involves a preference for cleanliness and order.”

This is the most common misconception. While some people with OCD may have obsessions related to cleanliness, many others experience completely different types of obsessions. OCD can manifest in various ways, including fears about harming others, unwanted sexual thoughts, or a need for symmetry. For instance, someone with OCD may constantly check if the stove is off because of a fear that they might accidentally start a fire. This behavior isn’t about cleanliness but about managing overwhelming anxiety.

2.  “Everyone's a little OCD.”

People often say, “I’m so OCD” when referring to their perfectionism or preference for order. However, OCD is not a personality trait or quirk. It is a debilitating condition that can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Comparing OCD to ordinary behaviors trivializes the struggles of those living with the disorder.

3.  “Individuals with OCD can overcome their compulsions simply through willpower.”

Compulsions in OCD are not done for fun or out of choice. They are performed because the individual feels intense anxiety or distress if they don’t. Telling someone to “just stop” their compulsive behavior is unhelpful and dismissive. Instead, they need support and evidence-based treatments to manage their condition.

4.  “OCD is caused by being overly worried or controlling.”

OCD is not about being overly worried or controlling; it’s a mental health condition that involves a complex interplay of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. It is not caused by a person’s personality or upbringing, though stressful events can trigger symptoms in those predisposed to the condition.

5.  “OCD is rare.”

OCD is not as rare as many people think. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks OCD among the top 20 leading causes of illness-related disability globally. Studies suggest that about 1-2% of the global population experiences OCD, making it a relatively common mental health condition.

What OCD Feels Like

Living with OCD can be exhausting and socially isolating. The obsessions and compulsions take up a significant amount of time and energy, leaving little room for other activities. People with OCD often feel ashamed or embarrassed about their symptoms, which can lead them to hide their struggles. This stigma makes it harder for them to seek help and support.

For example, a person with intrusive thoughts about harming others might avoid social situations, fearing they might act on their thoughts. In reality, these thoughts are unwanted, and the person has no intention of harming anyone. However, the fear and guilt they feel can be overwhelming.

The Reality of OCD Treatment

OCD is treatable, but it requires the right approach. Some of the most effective treatments include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of talk therapy that helps individuals challenge and change their thought patterns. A specialized type of CBT, known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is highly effective in treating OCD. Medications such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to alleviate OCD symptoms.
• Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand what it’s like to live with OCD can provide emotional support and encouragement.
• Self-Care Practices: Techniques like mindfulness and stress management techniques can complement professional treatment and help reduce anxiety.

How to Support Someone With OCD

If someone you know has OCD, here are some ways you can support them:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about OCD to better understand what they are going through.
• Practice Patience: Healing is a gradual journey, and setbacks are a natural part of progress.
• Avoid Judgement: Don’t dismiss their fears or behaviours, even if they don’t make sense to you.
• Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest seeking therapy or consulting a mental health professional or the best psychologist in India.
• Offer Emotional Support: Let them know you’re there for them and that they don’t have to face OCD alone.

Conclusion

OCD is a complex and frequently misunderstood mental health condition. By dispelling common misconceptions, we can foster a more compassionate and supportive environment for those affected. It’s essential to recognize that OCD is not simply a personality trait or a choice but a serious condition requiring understanding and professional care.

If you or someone you know is struggling with OCD, seeking help from experienced therapists is crucial. TalktoAngel, a leading platform for online counselling, connects individuals with the best psychologists in India who specialize in OCD, depression, and anxiety disorders. With the right support and treatment, managing OCD and leading a fulfilling life is entirely possible.

Contributed by: Dr. R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach &  Ms. Sakshi Dhankhar, Counselling Psychologist

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR).
• World Health Organization. (2020). Mental Health and Substance Use Statistics.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Overview.
• International OCD Foundation. (2023). What is OCD?