The 2nd full week of October marks Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Awareness Week. The International OCD Foundation describes OCD Awareness Week as “a worldwide event that serves to dispel myths about obsessive compulsive disorder, break the stigma around mental illness, and provide education about the disorder and how to support those affected.” 

People struggling with OCD can experience unwanted obsessions as well as intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that are distressing to them. They may engage in compulsions or behaviors in an attempt to get rid of their obsessions and/or decrease the distress they cause. 

While many people can have the experience of intrusive thoughts and a desire to engage in behaviors to decrease feelings of emotional distress at some point in their lives, for people with OCD, obsessions and compulsions can become time-consuming and disrupt their daily lives, including to activities they enjoy. 

These obsessions often fall into several main themes, including contamination, perfectionism, and religious practices. Similarly, compulsions tend to fall into categories, such as cleaning or organizing, checking on things, and repeating activities, body movements, or other actions. 

Know the facts

  • Over 200 million people worldwide live with OCD.
  • OCD affects 1 in 40 adults in their lifetime and 1 in 100 children.
  • OCD is not a personality quirk or idiosyncrasy.
  • OCD can be debilitating and significantly impact a person’s quality of life and functioning.

Treatments and Therapies

While there is no cure for OCD, there are highly effective treatments for OCD. A therapy approach called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) plus Medication is considered the gold standard treatment for OCD. 

Take Action

  • If you want to learn more about OCD or are concerned that you or your young person may have OCD, the International OCD Foundation has great resources, including an online screening tool that may be helpful. 
  • If you or a loved one has OCD, don’t let stigma or discrimination keep you from receiving the care you need. Familiarize yourself with the available treatment options. 

Seek care from qualified mental health professionals who are culturally responsive and advocate for yourself or your young person to receive quality treatment that aligns with your needs, goals, and preferences. 

References: 

Additional Mental Health & Well-Being Resources

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