I work in a bank, and recently a co-worker of mine confided in me that she struggles with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
When she shared this with me, I was shocked because she had never mentioned it before.
I wanted to help her in any way I could, but when I tried to offer her advice or assistance, it didn’t seem to help at all.
In fact, it only made things worse.
She seemed to become more anxious and overwhelmed, and it was difficult for me to watch. I wanted to do something to make her feel better, but I was in a difficult situation because I didn’t know enough about OCD or how to handle it.
My experience has made me more aware of how difficult it can be for people with OCD, and I want to do what I can to help.
Lisa
Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be an incredibly difficult and isolating experience. Symptoms of OCD can be both intrusive and disruptive to daily life and activities, and individuals who suffer from OCD can often feel overwhelmed and ashamed of their condition.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways that people can help their coworkers who are living with OCD. The first step to helping coworkers with OCD is to create an environment of understanding and acceptance.
- Recognize: It is important to recognize that OCD is a real and serious medical condition, and to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for those who experience it.
- Talk: Encourage coworkers to talk openly about their condition and to ask for help if needed.
- Accommodate: Make sure that any accommodations needed to help them manage their OCD are put in place.
- Support: It is also important to provide emotional support to those living with OCD. Remind them that they are not alone, and that there are people who care about them and want to help.
- Encourage: Show them that their condition doesn’t define them, and that they have the strength and courage to manage it.
- Listen: It is important to provide practical help and support. This can include offering to listen to someone’s worries and fears, helping them complete tasks that might be difficult due to their condition, or simply offering a kind word or hug when they are feeling overwhelmed.
- Seek help: Assist your coworker to seek additional, professional and qualified help, such as CBT therapy.
By creating an environment of acceptance and understanding, providing emotional support, and offering practical help and support, people can help their coworkers who are living with OCD.
It is important to remember that everyone experiences OCD differently, so it is important to be patient, understanding, and willing to listen. With the right kind of support, those living with OCD can learn to manage their condition and lead fulfilling lives.