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misconceptions about ocd
OCD, known as obsessive-compulsive disorder, continues to be a misunderstood and sometimes misdiagnosed mental health disorder. Even with increasing awareness and more available resources, misconceptions and stereotypes continue to shadow the public’s understanding of OCD, influencing both stigmatization and invalidation of those living with the condition.
Common MisconceptionsOne myth is that OCD is a personality trait or a simple preference. For example, someone might say, "My house always has to be really neat; I just have some OCD," or use the term to describe themselves as a "neat freak." OCD is sometimes glamorized in the media and everyday conversation, with statements such as, “I love organizing and cleaning; thank God for my OCD.” Other media outlets have also portrayed someone with OCD as “rigid, rude, controlling, and unpleasant.” These views are invalidating and diminish the serious nature of what OCD is, reducing it to just a personality trait or viewing it as a “blessing” rather than a complex mental health issue.
OCD involves a variety of unwanted and intrusive thoughts that can also be expressed as images or urges known as “obsessions.” These obsessions are not just annoying but can be significantly disturbing for the individual. They are ego-dystonic to the individual and often attack their values. The obsessions can present as fears, such as harming others, moral/religious doubts, taking on excessive responsibility for potential harm, preoccupations with bodily processes, and fear of contamination, just to name a few.
Compulsions are the physical behaviors and/or mental acts performed in an attempt to reduce and neutralize the distress caused by these obsessions. It’s a common misunderstanding that compulsions are only physical, e.g., washing hands, checking doors/appliances, rewriting words, reorganizing items in the household, etc. In reality, compulsions can also be mental, which often go unnoticed. Mental compulsions might include mentally replaying scenarios or interactions with others to reassure oneself that the feared situation/event did not occur, counting, using specific words or prayers to neutralize obsessive thoughts, etc. These mental compulsions are often harder to pinpoint.
Stigma and ShameThe stigma surrounding OCD can lead to increased feelings of shame and guilt, making it difficult for individuals to seek help. People with OCD often worry about being judged negatively due to the nature of their obsessional thoughts or being labeled as "crazy" or a "bad person," or even viewed as “controlling” because of their symptoms. This stigma not only reinforces feelings of shame but also hinders their access to appropriate treatment, as people are reluctant to open up and share their internal suffering. Symptoms are also often misinterpreted; for example, a parent might view their child’s requests for their family to wash their hands or not touch them as being “defiant” rather than as a disorder driven by fear, doubt, and uncertainty.
Moving ForwardIt is important to educate the public about OCD, eliminate these myths, and reduce the stigma. Understanding that OCD involves complex and often hidden struggles can create empathy and provide necessary support for those affected.
Resources:https://anxietyocdphilly.com/debunking-ocd-misconceptions/Iocdf.orgNOCD
- Claire Borsinger, LCSW, ext. 312