Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.

There’s a common misconception that if you like to clean, organize, or plan out your life, then you must have OCD. There's a lot more to it than that.

Key Points:

  • Myth #1: Repetitive behaviors are directly linked to OCD. OCD has two aspects; the thoughts, images, or impulses known as obsessions, and the actions people engage in to handle the anxiety caused by obsessions, which are known as compulsions.  
  • Myth #2: The main characteristic of OCD is excessive hand washing. While this is a characteristic of OCD, most people probably just want to have clean hands. Individuals with OCD struggle with far more than just the urge to wash their hands, and they often don’t have any control over their obsessions and compulsions.
  • Myth #3: People with OCD don’t understand that their actions are irrational. One of the scariest things about OCD is that the person suffering often is fully aware that their thoughts and actions are not normal. OCD sufferers report feeling crazy because of their anxiety, which controls most of their thoughts and actions.
  • So what causes it? Unfortunately, scientists aren’t fully aware of what causes OCD. However, we know enough to be able to suggest treatments for it. The good news is OCD can be stopped or at least controlled through medication, therapy, or surgery.

Quote This:

It’s like being controlled by a puppeteer. Every time you try and just walk away he pulls you back. Are you sure the stove is off and everything is unplugged? Back up we go. Are you sure your hands are as clean as they can get? Back ya go. Are you sure the doors are securely locked? Back down we go. How many people have touched this object? Wash your hands again. -Toni Neville

Talk About It
  1. What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Describe some behaviors that you personally believe are associated with OCD.
  3. Are any of the behaviors you thought of myths? How do you think myths affect people’s perception of those suffering from OCD.
  4. Is our culture a helpful environment for those suffering from OCD? How so?
  5. Why do you think OCD is so destructive to those who suffer from it?
  6. What are a few active steps someone who has OCD could take to better control their disorder?
  7. Write a personal action step based on this conversation.