Debunking Myths About Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Our mental health clinic in Cumberland, Maryland, provides mental health services for people living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is one of the illnesses that affect the quality of life. OCD is composed of thoughts (obsessions) that may induce anxiety. While people experience distressing thoughts, people with OCD reduce their anxiety by performing rituals and behaviors (compulsions), and the cycle continues. 

However, the media has given a platform for OCD, but they fill it with myths and misconceptions. As a provider of behavioral health care in Maryland, we have to help debunk myths about OCD and provide a better understanding of the illness. Here are some myths about OCD:

• OCD is about obsessing about neatness.
  While some people with OCD have obsessive themes about cleanliness, it can manifest in other themes. According to a psychiatrist, OCD has different themes other than cleanliness and contamination. It includes harm OCD, pedophile OCD, sexual orientation OCD, and more. 
• Everyone has a little bit of OCD.
  While it is true that all people have distressing or intrusive thoughts, they don’t necessarily reflect OCD. OCD has a pattern of doing compulsions to stop the anxiety caused by obsessions. If you think you have OCD, seek psychotherapy in Maryland. 
• OCD thoughts reflect who you are. 
  When you have an anxiety disorder like OCD, it is safe to think that thoughts are just thoughts. OCD is a mental disorder, and it can affect how the brain generates thoughts and how we perceive them. It is essential to seek mental health services to learn ways to manage thoughts caused by OCD. 

If you think you have OCD, consult our professionals at TAS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH. Allow our professionals to assess and provide the best possible treatment based on your case.