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11th April 2022

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Spiraling in endless thoughts


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Written By: Tasfia Farzana

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition in which people experience recurring, unwanted thoughts, ideas, or sensations (obsessions) that make them feel driven to behave repetitively (compulsions) to satisfy their obsession. 

It may sometimes sound like- 

● “I have to repeat the numbers/words.” 

● “This doesn't seem just right. Everything must be just right.” 

● “What if the locks are not properly locked?” 

● “This isn’t clean enough.” 

What can help a person with OCD? 

  • Psychological Therapy- Usually cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps you face your fears and obsessive thoughts without satisfying those thoughts through compulsions. 
  •  Antidepressants- usually a type of antidepressant medication called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which can help by altering the balance of chemicals in your brain 
  •  A person experiencing OCD generally understands that their obsessive thoughts are unrealistic. Therefore, it is better not to inform them of this as it may make them feel as if they are unaware of the nature of their obsessive thoughts. 
  •  It is not necessary to help a person with OCD recover if you care for them. Being someone who acknowledges them for who they are beyond their disorder shows support and acknowledgment.

Myths Vs Facts

Myth: “We’re all a little OCD”

Fact: There is no such thing as ‘little OCD’. This is a complex and exhausting disorder affecting around 1-2% of the population. 

 

Myth: “It’s all about being obsessively clean”

Fact: People with OCD experience repetitive and negative, and intrusive thoughts combined with a chronic feeling of doubt and danger. 
 

Myth: “They just need to be more relaxed”

Fact: Not Possible. People with OCD find it difficult to dismiss their anxiety and unpleasant thoughts. In fact, over time and without treatment, the thoughts can become more distressing and take over someone’s life.

 

Myth: “You  just have to learn to live with it.”

Fact: As with any other serious illness, there is no reason for anyone to ‘put up with OCD. Consider meeting a professional early on. 

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