OCD or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition where people have recurring thoughts called obsessions that lead to repetitive behaviours called compulsions.
These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with daily life and cause distress. It's important to remember that OCD is a real medical condition and not just a quirk or preference. In such a condition there's a lot of anxiety which makes a person repeat the same task over and over again without the need of it being done. One is aware their thoughts are irrational but they are not able to resist because if they stop, the feelings of panic will cause distress and discomfort.
Wondering what OCD looks like ?
Let's consider someone who has an obsession with cleanliness. As a result they experience intrusive thoughts such as their hands are dirty or something in their surroundings is dirty. To reduce their anxiety they engage themselves in compulsive action such as washing hands or repeatedly cleaning a particular object. The person who experiences this becomes obsessive and compulsion takes on their mental peace.
Things Not to Say to Someone Suffering From OCD
1. "Just relax and stop worrying about it."
This statement can invalidate their feelings and minimise the severity of their condition. OCD is not simply about worrying; it's a complex mental health disorder that requires understanding and professional treatment.
2. "Why don't you just stop doing those rituals?"
It's essential to recognise that OCD involves intrusive thoughts and compulsions that are often beyond the individual's control. Simply telling someone to stop their rituals overlooks the underlying psychological complexities of the disorder.
3. "You're being so irrational."
Criticising someone with OCD for their behaviour can exacerbate their feelings of shame and guilt. It's essential to remember that their actions are driven by anxiety and not a choice they're making willingly.
4. "I know how you feel; I have a little OCD too."
Using the term "OCD" casually to describe minor quirks or preferences diminishes the seriousness of the disorder. Comparing everyday behaviours to the struggles of someone with clinical OCD can be dismissive and insensitive.
5. "You're just seeking attention."
Suggesting that someone with OCD is seeking attention can be hurtful and damaging. It overlooks the genuine distress they experience due to their symptoms and may discourage them from seeking the help they need.
Symptoms of OCD Include:
1. Obsession
Intrusive, unwanted thoughts and visions or urge to do something that causes distress. Examples could be fear of contamination, doubts about safety, etc.
2. Compulsion
Doing something repeatedly out of one's obsession. For example checking locks, counting objects.
3. Rituals
Doing something on a daily basis to reduce stress and anxiety or to prevent a fearful situation as a part of superstitious beliefs. Rituals are often time and effort consuming.
4. Distress and Impairment
OCD causes a lot of stress in an individual because they are always obsessed with doing a particular thing and their mind is never free. It also hinders routine tasks and works that require a greater amount of attention.
Can OCD be Cured?
Yes, there are effective treatments for OCD! One of the most common and effective treatments is a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify and challenge their obsessive thoughts and learn healthier ways to respond to them. Another treatment option is medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which increase the levels of serotonin and regulate mood and anxiety and can help reduce the symptoms of OCD. Sometimes a combination of therapy and medication is used for the best results. It's important to work with a mental health professional who can tailor the treatment to your specific needs.
What to do if you or someone close to you suffers from OCD?
Increase your knowledge about OCD and challenge your thoughts. When obsessive thoughts arise, try questioning their validity and challenging their accuracy. Ask yourself if there is any evidence supporting these thoughts and consider alternative perspectives. To take your mind out of your obsessions and compulsion engage in routine tasks and reward yourself for successfully completing them.
Conclusion
At an early stage if one is able to figure out OCD, self help strategies can be beneficial. But self-help strategies do not substitute therapy or professional help. It's important to consult a mental health professional and get therapy and medication tailored for your needs. Professional help is necessary so that one's mental peace is not destroyed because of their struggle with OCD. If not taken care, OCD interrupts one's personal and professional life and hinder growth ultimately leading to distress. OCD also leads to disturbances in the family as the person who has OCD wants everything as per their needs and wants and anything that goes out of their way leads to disharmony.