4 Myths About OCD Debunked

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common mental health condition affecting 2-3% of people in the United States. However, given the number of people who claim to “be a little OCD” about cleaning their kitchen or arranging their desks, you’d think that number would be higher.

OCD is a serious mental illness that takes over a person’s life. The myths and misconceptions surrounding OCD paint an inaccurate picture that may harm those with the disorder.

At Reviv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center in Fullerton, California, our compassionate psychiatrist, Dr. Hina Sidhu, wants to dispel some of the misinformation and stigma surrounding OCD by debunking some of the myths about it. 

1. Myth: Having a little OCD is a thing

OCD isn’t something you can turn on and off. It’s a long-term mental health condition that affects cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.

People with OCD have recurring unwanted thoughts or urges (obsessions) that trigger anxiety, like fear of germs or contamination. 

People with OCD have no control over these unwanted thoughts, and the only way to get rid of them is to engage in repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions) like constantly washing hands. 

It’s not unusual to fear germs and want to wash your hands to prevent illness. However, with OCD, the thoughts are excessive and time-consuming, and the behaviors fail to provide any relief. 

Most people wash their hands and don’t give it a second thought, moving on to the next task, like eating lunch.

2. Myth: People with OCD need to relax

Telling someone with OCD to relax delegitimizes their illness. OCD isn’t a choice — it’s a mental illness that causes debilitating symptoms that affect quality of life. People with OCD may recognize that their thoughts and actions are illogical, but they have no control over them.

OCD is a chronic condition. However, with the right treatment plan, symptoms and quality of life improve. Treatment for OCD may include psychotherapy, medication, or both. 

We also offer transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for people with OCD who fail to experience improvements in symptoms with other interventions. TMS is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the areas of the brain associated with OCD, helping to relieve symptoms.  

3. Myth: OCD is only about cleanliness

The need to have everything in order and clean is a symptom of OCD for some people, but not everyone. People with OCD may have unwanted thoughts about harming themselves or others, constant thoughts of doubt about decisions, or fears about saying the wrong thing. 

These thoughts may not trigger outward behaviors like excessive cleaning or hand washing but mental acts to relieve the thought and anxiety, like counting or repeating phrases. 

4. Myth: You can tell when someone has OCD

Despite what you see on TV, not everyone with OCD feels better after rearranging their desk or washing the dishes. Many people with OCD hide their behaviors. 

However, the thoughts and behaviors that occur with OCD take up large chunks of time, interfering with personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is missing work, skipping out on family time, or avoiding activities, they may need help. Only a doctor can diagnose OCD. 

OCD worsens over time when left untreated. If you or someone you love has signs and symptoms of OCD, now is the time to reach out for help. 

Call our office today at 714-868-8514 to schedule an appointment. We offer in-office and telemedicine appointments for patient convenience.