“I’m so OCD” or “We’re all a little OCD” are phrases too often used without giving much thought to its implications. These phrases harbor deep myths about a condition known as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). While OCD remains a prevalent mental health condition that affects approximately 2 to 3 million people in the United States, many misconceptions and stereotypes belittle the struggle people with OCD face each day.
In this article, we will dig deeper into OCD and explore its definition, symptoms, and treatment options, while debunking some common myths along the way.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, commonly referred to as OCD, is defined as a mental health disorder characterized by persistent, intrusive, and distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed in response to these obsessions.
The compulsions, mental acts or behaviors, occur as a direct result of the non-stop, upsetting thoughts referred to as obsessions. These thoughts and behaviors can become so overwhelming that they interfere with a person’s daily life. People with OCD can become burdened by distress and anguish to the point it impairs their lives and prevents them from performing everyday tasks, succeeding at work, and heading out on outings. With all the physical harm and mental strain caused by OCD, it’s no wonder the disorder can also impede their ability to maintain healthy relationships.
What are the symptoms of OCD?
Obsessions
Obsessions are best defined as intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter a person’s mind. Obsessive thoughts that commonly accompany OCD can range from fears of contamination, fears of harm to oneself or others, or an intense need for order and symmetry. These debilitating thoughts are cognitive distortions, or untrue versions of reality, that our brain tricks us into thinking are real. But for people with OCD, their fears feel very real. To ease the anxiety and distress, they may compulsively act in ways they believe will help.
Compulsions
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed as a means to reduce the stress caused by the obsessions. For example, a person with contamination obsessions may compulsively wash their hands, while someone with obsessions about harm may repeatedly check locks or appliances. These compulsions provide temporary relief but often lead to a vicious cycle. As the anxiety and obsessions return, so do the compulsive behaviors.
How can I get diagnosed with OCD?
To be diagnosed with OCD, obsessions and compulsions must be time-consuming. According to the DSM-5, they must take up at least one hour per day, and significantly interfere with your everyday tasks (daily functioning), many of your relationships (romantic, familial, platonic), or your work.
It’s not just about needing things to be clean and orderly or wanting to arrange items by color or size—the obsessive thoughts must be distressing and interfere with your daily life. You can’t stop thinking about it. You are riddled by anxiety. You feel there won’t be any relief until you act on a compulsion, even if that means driving back home from work and being tardy because you think you left the house unlocked.
This is just one example, and a single occurrence is not enough for a diagnosis. If this were to happen multiple times and directly affect your wellbeing and work responsibilities, then there may be grounds for a diagnosis. If you feel that your life is being impaired by intrusive, obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, reach out to a board-certified psychotherapist or psychiatrist for help.
To learn more about OCD, let’s take a look at some common myths to get a better understanding of what OCD really means.
Myth: OCD is just about being clean and organized.
While some individuals with OCD have cleanliness and organization-related obsessions and compulsions, OCD can manifest in many forms. Other obsessions can include checking (ex. checking things are in place multiple times), counting items or actions, hoarding, or intrusive thoughts.
Myth: Everyone has a little OCD.
Having preferences for order and cleanliness does not mean someone has OCD. OCD is a clinical disorder characterized by distressing and time-consuming obsessions and compulsions. For example, someone with OCD may be compelled to clean a table, even when it looks clean or has already been cleaned not too long ago. As they try to stop themselves from cleaning it, they grow more anxious and distressed. They are not able to go about their day until they clean the table to the degree required by their distortion of reality, unlike a person who simply wants to keep a clean house.
Myth: People with OCD are just overly anxious or perfectionistic.
While anxiety and perfectionism may be features of OCD, it is a distinct mental health disorder with specific criteria for diagnosis. It goes beyond worrying or striving for excellence.
Myth: OCD is rare.
OCD is more common than many people realize. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), OCD is one of the top 20 causes of illness-related disability worldwide, affecting approximately 2-3% of the global population at some point in their lives.
Myth: OCD can’t be treated.
OCD is treatable, and many individuals with the disorder can lead fulfilling lives with the right combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication.
The most effective form of psychotherapy for OCD is exposure and response prevention (ERP), a type of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). ERP helps individuals confront their obsessions and gradually reduce their compulsive behaviors.
When medications are necessary, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and sertraline, are commonly prescribed to alleviate OCD symptoms. Because serotonin is known to influence moods, SSRIs are used to regulate moods and reduce anxiety in people with OCD.
Read: 5 Breathing Techniques to Relieve Anxiety
Understanding OCD: The First Step To a Fulfilling Life
Have you been wondering, “Do I have OCD?” If so, seeking an official diagnosis from a professional can be a healing, empowering journey. While there are many misconceptions about OCD, it is essential to recognize the severity of the disorder and seek support. Remember, you do not have to face this alone. Recovery is possible.
Take the next step towards relief and schedule an appointment with a therapist who can provide the right support and understanding you need to thrive. Book your session with us at Austin Anxiety and Trauma Specialists and we’ll match you with a trained professional who can help you find the right OCD treatment for your condition–and find relief. There is hope. We can help.
