When Urges Control Your Life: Personal Accounts of OCD

When Urges Control Your Life: Personal Accounts of OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The disorder manifests itself in two ways: obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. These obsessions are intrusive and persistent thoughts that cause anxiety, and compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that aim to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions.

Living with OCD is not easy. People with OCD often experience shame and guilt, believing they are the only ones with this disorder. However, this is not the case, as millions of people worldwide have OCD. In this article, we wanted to share personal accounts of those who live with OCD and how it affects their lives.

“I cannot leave my house without checking the locks five times.”

Jenny, 25, has been living with OCD since she was 12. She explains that one of her main obsessions is the fear of being burgled, leading her to check the locks repeatedly. “I cannot carry on with my day without making sure that every door and window is secure,” she explains, “it’s like an urge that I cannot ignore.” This behavior takes up a significant amount of her time and has led her to be late for work or social events.

“I wash my hands until they are raw.”

David, 38, has been living with OCD for the past five years. One of his main compulsions is washing his hands. “I always have to make sure that my hands are clean,” he says, “even if they are not dirty.” David spends hours washing his hands, causing them to become red and sore. This behavior has led him to avoid socializing and going out in public, as he fears that people will notice his raw hands.

“I constantly check things, like stove knobs and taps.”

Laura, 28, has been living with OCD since she was 17. Her main obsession is the fear of causing a fire or flood in her home. “I always feel like something terrible will happen if I don’t check things constantly,” she says. Laura checks things like stove knobs and taps repeatedly, causing her to be late for work or social events. Her behavior has also led her to avoid going out in public, as she fears that people will notice her checking behavior.

“I want everything to be perfect.”

Sophie, 32, has been living with OCD since she was a child. Her main obsession is the fear of making mistakes. Sophie explains that she needs everything to be perfect, from the way she looks to the way her home looks. This behavior takes up a significant amount of her time, causing her to be late for work or social events. Sophie’s behavior has also led her to avoid going out in public, as she fears that people will judge her if something is not perfect.

Final thoughts

Living with OCD is challenging, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Millions of people worldwide have OCD, and there are many treatment options available. However, seeking help can be as challenging as living with the disorder itself. It’s essential to know that there is nothing wrong with seeking professional help, and it’s okay to ask for help. With proper support and treatment, those who live with OCD can manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.