What not to say to someone with OCD
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash downloaded 10/5/23
When talking to someone with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), it's important to be sensitive, compassionate, and informed. OCD is a mental health condition characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Here are some comments and phrases you should avoid saying to someone with OCD.
"You're just being dramatic." or "Everyone is a bit OCD sometimes."
This minimizes the severity of their disorder and implies that they are exaggerating their symptoms for attention.
Comparing the disorder to everyday quirks or preferences is misleading and trivializes the severity and difficulty of OCD.
"Just stop it." or "It's all in your head."
Telling someone to simply stop their behaviors is not helpful, as the compulsions are often beyond their control.
While OCD is a mental disorder, this phrase dismisses the validity and impact it has on the individual’s life.
"I wish I had OCD; my house would be so clean." or, "You don’t really have OCD; you’re not neat enough."
OCD is not about being clean or organized. OCD takes many forms and not all involve cleanliness or order. It can involve various obsessions and compulsions. It is a serious mental health condition that can be incredibly distressing for those who have it.
Photo by Caleb George on Unsplash downloaded 10/5/23
"Why can't you just relax?" or "You’re just trying to control everything."
OCD can cause significant anxiety, and this statement implies that the person is choosing to be anxious or that they haven't tried to relax.
While OCD can sometimes involve a need for control, this statement can make the person feel blamed, or embarrassed for their experiences and struggles.
"Have you tried not thinking about it?" or, "But that doesn’t make any sense."
If it were that simple, they likely wouldn’t be struggling with OCD. This comment can also make them feel as though they haven't tried hard enough to get better.
While the person with OCD might be aware that their fears or behaviors are irrational, they may still be compelled to perform them. Pointing out the lack of logic can make them feel ashamed or invalidated for reaching out for support.
Instead, here are some ways you can support someone with OCD:
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash downloaded 10/5/23
Educate Yourself: Learn about OCD and understand its complexities.
Listen Actively: Allow them to share their experiences without judgment.
Express Support: Let them know that you are there for them.
Encourage Treatment: Encourage them to seek professional help if they haven't already.
Be Patient: Understand that dealing with OCD can be a long and challenging process.
OCD Counseling in Missouri
At Aspire Counseling, nearly half of our clinicians are trained in ERP which is used to help treat OCD. Our therapists believe strongly in evidence based practice, and along with working with OCD, our clinicians also work with disordered eating, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and much more!
Along with our Columbia MO office, we also offer services at our Lee’s Summit location, and online counseling to anyone in the state of Missouri!
To begin counseling with Aspire Counseling, you can go online and fill out our contact form, and then one of our amazing Client Care Team members will give you a call and get you set up with the best matched therapist based on your unique needs! From there we offer a free 30 minute consultation, which is a great way for you to meet your therapist, and really get to know them!
Reach out today to begin you therapy journey with Aspire Counseling!
