Table of Contents
- Myth 1: “If you don’t have visible compulsions, you don’t have OCD.”
- Myth 2: “OCD is just about being meticulous and organized. Everyone has a little OCD.”
- Myth 3: “OCD is easy to treat – just stop doing the compulsions!”
- Final Thoughts
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) if often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions that minimize its severity and impact. These myths can prevent individuals in need of professional help from seeking proper treatment, contribute to stigma, and spread misinformation. Below, we debunk five common myths about OCD and explain why they may be harmful.
Myth 1: “If you don’t have visible compulsions, you don’t have OCD.”
While some individuals with OCD engage in visible compulsions (e.g., handwashing, checking), some experience what is known as “Pure O,” where compulsions occur internally. This may include mental counting, mental reviewing (e.g., replaying past events or conversations to analyze them), repeating phrases mentally, ruminating, and self-reassurance seeking (e.g., telling oneself that a thought or feeling is not true). Individuals with purely mental compulsions may struggle to receive an accurate diagnosis or proper treatment because their symptoms do not fit the stereotypical image of OCD.
Myth 2: “OCD is just about being meticulous and organized. Everyone has a little OCD.”
Although some individuals with OCD experience compulsions related to cleanliness or orderliness, OCD can manifest in several ways. It may involve intrusive thoughts about harm, death, relationships, self-worth, or the state of the world. These intrusive thoughts are often accompanied by compulsive behaviors (visible, mental, or a combination of both) that are meant to neutralize the distress associated with such thoughts. This myth trivializes the struggles of those with OCD and reduces it to a personality trait rather than a serious mental health disorder. This can lead to many dismissing their symptoms, make it harder for them to be taken seriously, and ultimately get in the way of them receiving appropriate treatment.
Myth 3: “OCD is easy to treat – just stop doing the compulsions!”
Stopping compulsions abruptly without structured support can increase distress and make symptoms worse. Furthermore, failed attempts at stopping compulsions without guidance can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and anger at oneself. Treating OCD with evidenced-based practices, such as Exposure Response Prevention therapy, can be highly effective, but it takes time, commitment, willingness, self-compassion, and professional guidance.
Final Thoughts
OCD is a complex and diverse disorder that deserves proper understanding and treatment. At Vivid Psychology Group, we care deeply about reducing stigma around OCD and assisting individuals in seeking the care they need. If you or someone you know is struggling with OCD, our expert team is ready to provide you with personalized, effective treatment to address your unique needs.
Author
Adam Kroot, M.A.
Adam is a Doctoral Extern at Vivid Psychology Group. He has received Master’s degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Sport and Exercise Psychology from Ball State University and is currently working toward his Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from the University of Denver.
