Unraveling the Myths: What Is the Truth About OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly abbreviated as OCD, is a disorder where an individual has continuous obsessions or behaviors of the same type throughout their entire life. Although people often assume this disorder to be concerned with a fear of germs or obsession with everything being neat and orderly, it isn't necessarily limited to these two aspects.

Although it can be treated, OCD is neither controllable nor completely curable. Regardless, people with OCD are deemed as “abnormal” by those that believe they are “normal”. They are inconsiderate of what little can be done about one’s OCD. In addition, they do this in order to exploit the victim's OCD to elevate themselves above. We often treat them too often as if they can change their behaviors in a snap, which is contrary to the true nature of OCD. 

One possible scenario about someone with OCD is that they are not informed that they have it. This likely could induce them to a sense of self-hatred if they find it hard to cope well with others. They think that they aren’t trying hard enough and constantly feel down about how others interact with them. Therefore, it is important that if OCD-like symptoms occur at a young age, they should be checked out ASAP.

OCD does not mark intelligence i.e. people with OCD can do pretty well in school, perhaps even better than others. Yet it has been packaged with the other behavioral disorders that people assume prevent one from functioning normally. This stigma has led to the point where others have cascaded their OCD into another, more serious mental disorder. Not only does this harm the individual with OCD, but it also is a direct reflection of those who initiate it: an important source of joy to them is bringing down others. A common reason for this is that they also are going through a rough time, but a certain force has prevented them from seeking help. 

In the media and the general public, even though OCD penetrates the lives of many, the subject is often avoided. A logical explanation for this is that people find discomfort talking about OCD, as they are afraid of what others think. Like other mental conditions, we need to find a method where people can talk about their issues without feeling overwhelmed by the reactions of others. 

In summary, if you see someone with OCD symptoms, find ways to support them, knowing the challenges they face. It’s hard enough to live with this disorder, and others “helping” them by telling them to “fix their situation” provides no benefit to anyone. Furthermore, we shouldn’t actively try to deliberately “cure” one’s OCD. Not only is that inappropriate and unviable, but it may also result in a lingering feeling of control over that individual.