Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is the name given to a condition in which people experience repetitive and upsetting thoughts and/or behaviors.  OCD has two main features: obsessions and compulsions and living with it can be overwhelming and difficult to understand/cope with.  People with OCD are not able to control or ignore unpleasant thoughts, which in turn causes frequent distress, anxiety and suffering.  If you have OCD, you are not alone! OCD is more common than people think, affecting 1 in 44 U.S. adults.

Do’s:

Get Help: If you are experiencing symptoms of OCD, reach out to someone and seek professional help! OCD is more common than you think and is not something to be ashamed of.

Be Proud:  You have an illness that people some people can’t begin to understand living with, yet you do- everyday. Be proud of your ability to live with an overwhelming illness and recognize your efforts. Be proud of your strength. Be proud of your progress, whether big or small.  You do what you need to do despite your OCD, and THAT is something to be proud of.

Forgive Yourself: Rid yourself of the past and focus on improving your future. People living with OCD tend to be very hard on themselves. Remember: You have an illness and that’s okay. Continue to move forward and try to put any regretful thoughts or behaviors behind you. It’s a new day.

Accept Risk and Challenge: When you least expect it, life will throw risk and challenge your way and it’s important to confront it, not run from it.  Risk is unavoidable, so when presented with it, try to accept it and look at it as a positive opportunity to potentially make some progress.

Don’ts:

Speaking of Progress: Don’t Get Impatient With Yours:  Don’t get irritated if you aren’t making the progress you think you should be, and DON’T compare yourself to anyone else. We all move to the beat of our own drum!

Live with Guilt: OCD has a way of carrying painful or regretful memories. Put the past behind you. Every day is a new day, and with every new day comes new opportunities for progress and advancement. Try not to dwell on things you cannot change, and focus on the things you can!

Give Up Hope: Hope is so important! Always keep hope in your pocket and never lose sight of it.  Hope will guide you down the path of success and potentially rid you of your OCD in time.

Think You Are Alone: 1 in 44 adults in the United States alone are living with OCD.  And if you don’t want to talk to someone with OCD, you have professionals and countless resources like hotlines, chats, and support groups.

If you are struggling with OCD, consider a clinical research study with Preferred Research Partners today!