Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions. People with OCD often have repetitive thoughts, urges, or behaviors that they feel they cannot control. These thoughts and behaviors can be distressing and interfere with daily life. Some common obsessions include concerns about contamination, a need for order and symmetry, and aggressive or intrusive thoughts. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning and hand-washing, checking, and counting.
OCD can be a disabling condition, but it is also treatable. Many people with OCD find relief from their symptoms with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, people learn to recognize and change their thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their OCD.
Here are some facts about OCD
- OCD is a common disorder, affecting about 2% of the population.
- OCD is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Many people with OCD do not seek treatment because they are embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms.
- OCD is equally common in men and women, and it can occur at any age.
- OCD is not just about being organized or clean. It is a serious disorder that can significantly interfere with daily life.
- OCD is not a choice. It is a disorder that can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
- OCD is treatable. With the right treatment, many people with OCD are able to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
Why is OCD misunderstood?
OCD is often misunderstood because its symptoms can be misunderstood or misinterpreted as something else. For example, people with OCD may have repetitive thoughts or behaviors that they feel they cannot control, but these may be mistaken for perfectionism or attention to detail.
Additionally, people with OCD may be embarrassed or ashamed of their symptoms, and they may not disclose them to others, which can lead to misunderstanding.
Finally, OCD is still not well-known or well-understood, and many people may not be aware of what it is or how it affects those who have it.
What are some common misconceptions about OCD?
There are several common misconceptions about OCD. Some of these include:
- OCD is just about being clean or organized: While people with OCD may have concerns about cleanliness and organization, these are just some of the many possible symptoms of OCD. OCD is a complex disorder that can affect people in many different ways.
- Only adults can have OCD: OCD can affect people of any age, including children and teenagers. In fact, OCD often begins in childhood or adolescence.
- People with OCD can’t be treated: OCD is a treatable disorder. Many people with OCD find relief from their symptoms with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With the right treatment, people with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
- People with OCD can stop their symptoms if they want to: OCD is not a choice. It is a disorder that can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. People with OCD cannot simply stop their symptoms by choosing to do so.
- OCD is rare: OCD is actually a common disorder, affecting about 2% of the population, and up to 25% on a sub-clinical level. It is not rare at all.