Common Misconceptions about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

This video debunks three common misconceptions about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It explains the difference between OCD and a cleanliness complex, clarifies that stress alone does not cause OCD, and emphasizes that OCD is treatable with the right therapy and medication.

Let's explore some common misconceptions about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD. Misconception number one: "If you're really neat, you have OCD." Cleaning and neatness are not equivalent to OCD. One common sign of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is an obsession with cleanliness, such as constantly washing your hands or excessively cleaning household items. However, a cleanliness complex is different. This can also be a personality trait or something a person enjoys. The key difference is that in this case, the person has control; they can choose to clean or not. With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, however, the person may clean out of an unrelenting and debilitating feeling of anxiety. Misconception number two: "Stress causes OCD." People with OCD cannot just relax and stop obsessing. It's just not that simple. OCD incites uncontrollable fears and anxiety. And while stressful situations can exacerbate symptoms in people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, stress alone does not cause it. Misconception number three: "OCD isn't treatable." Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is definitely treatable. However, historically, some people have been hesitant to seek OCD treatment because they're embarrassed or don't understand the condition. This may be why people think Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder can't be treated. The first line of OCD treatment is often a type of exposure therapy to change response and behavior. Some people need a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.