Millions of people with OCD battle this every day. OCD is not just about cleanliness and organization. It’s a complex web that can take over a person’s life. For those with less-known OCD types, the struggle can be even more invisible and misunderstood.
You may have heard of OCD, but not realized its diversity. You may have been struggling with intrusive thoughts, and wondered if you were experiencing something normal. We’re here to shed some light on OCD’s lesser-known side through the stories of 3 incredible women.
Lisa, a 38 year-old Connecticut mother of three, has been dealing with OCD ever since she was a child. After the birth of her son, Lisa’s journey was impacted by postpartum OCD. She would wake up in her sleep, convinced that something was wrong, to check on the breathing of her baby. The fear of SIDS became overwhelming. Lisa recalls that she would be wide awake and my chest would pound like an engine as she stared at the crib. This is not just anxiety, but a compulsion that interferes with daily life.
Keagan is a 29-year old woman from Virginia. Her OCD subtype, “scrupulosity OCD,” focuses on morality and ethical issues. She would spend hours rechecking bank statements and tax returns, terrified that she was doing something “bad”. At one point she became obsessed by the idea that she had accidentally burned down a home with a cigarette. Keagan recalls that she would check and recheck anything that could cause a fire, including stoves, candles and other items. It can take her hours to go through the endless cycle of doubts and reassurances.
Danielle, 33 years old, suffers from both “pure O”, OCD, and “relationship OCD”. Her mind is filled with endless questions about her relationship. Did she say the right thing? Why did it take her partner so long to reply? These thoughts create a loop of exhausting uncertainty. Danielle’s situation is further complicated by the fact that she also has pure O, a condition where intrusive thoughts from her past are constantly surfacing. She says, “Sometimes, I wish my mind would shut up.”
What is truly fascinating – and heartbreaking – about OCD is that it doesn’t fit in a mold that fits all. Stephanie Woodrow, an expert counselor in Washington DC, says that OCD is creative. “It takes themes that are common and twists them to suit each individual.”
These stories highlight an important issue: OCD in popular culture is often misrepresented. Social media platforms often misuse “OCD” to describe a disorder, distorting the public’s perception. This spreads misinformation and makes it difficult for people with OCD to receive the support and understanding that they need.
You’re not the only one who has ever doubted themselves, questioned their reality, or felt trapped in your thoughts. OCD affects 1% to 3% of the general population. Yet, it takes 14 to 17 years on average to find an effective treatment. This is usually due to misdiagnosis, or clinicians who are not trained to recognize OCD’s many forms.
Lisa, Keagan and Danielle’s experiences remind us that OCD doesn’t just involve hand-washing. It’s an invisible and diverse struggle that affects countless lives. We can help those with this condition by educating them and removing the stigma.
Next time you hear someone mention “OCD”, remember Lisa checking her crib, Keagan double-checking her taxes and Danielle questioning every move. These women’s experiences are testaments to the complexity and resilience that those with OCD subtypes have.
