Beyond OCD Stereotypes

As a therapist focused on treating anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and trauma…I’m also a big advocate for OCD education (surprise)! In my opinion, the need for education and advocacy stems from how deeply misunderstood OCD is. In everyday conversation, OCD is often reduced to throwaway comments about cleanliness or organization. In media, it’s usually portrayed as repetitive hand-washing or counting. These depictions aren’t just narrow and inaccurate, they also contribute to stigma and can make it harder for people to recognize OCD in themselves.

In my clinical work, this rings true. It’s not unusual for clients to have symptoms of OCD without ever considering the possibility of OCD. Sometimes, it’s only once we start talking through their experiences that they begin connecting the dots. So before we look at how OCD may actually present, let’s clear up a few common myths.

Common OCD Misconceptions and Myths

Myth #1: OCD Is Just About Cleanliness or Germs

While contamination-related obsessions can definitely be part of OCD, they’re only one possible subtype. OCD can also center around harm fears, relationship doubts, religious scrupulosity, “just right” feelings, and many other themes.

Myth #2: OCD Is Rare

Here in the U.S., OCD affects about 1 in 40 adults, and that’s just the number of diagnosed cases! Unfortunately, because of misunderstanding and even a lack of clinician training, OCD is often under-diagnosed. This under-diagnosis becomes even more concerning when there is trauma involved as the overlap between OCD and trauma is significant. For instance, research shows that up to 40% of those diagnosed with PTSD also receive a diagnosis of OCD. In my personal therapy practice, this means I’m often treating OCD and trauma together (traditionally treated separately…but that’s a discussion for another time).

Myth #3: Compulsions Are Only Physical Actions

Many people think compulsions are only visible behaviors like checking locks. However, the reality is that compulsions can also be internal. While mental compulsions may be less noticeable, it’s important to note that they can be just as time-consuming and disruptive as physical ones.

So What Does OCD Actually Look Like?

At this point, we hopefully understand that OCD symptoms are far more varied than they’re commonly portrayed. Yes, OCD can include recognizable behaviors but it often shows up in quieter ways.

A hallmark feature of OCD is the presence of obsessions: intrusive thoughts, images, or fears that feel out of line with a person’s actual values. The thoughts themselves aren’t dangerous, but the intensity of them can create overwhelming anxiety.

To ease this distress, people engage in compulsions. When compulsions are mental behaviors, nothing looks unusual on the outside, but internally it can feel like being trapped in an endless loop. Examples include silently trying to replace “bad thoughts” with “good thoughts,” engaging in avoidance, replaying or analyzing events, or seeking reassurance.

Other compulsions, such as googling, might be dismissed as “normal” behaviors when in reality, it’s deeply woven into your OCD cycle.

OCD can also show up as “just right” feelings or perfectionism, where tasks don’t feel complete until they’re done in a specific way. This might look like rewriting, rereading, or adjusting things repeatedly until the sense of unease lifts, sometimes at the cost of hours of lost time. And yes, more visible behaviors like checking the oven or making sure doors are locked are common, too.

Whether mental or physical, OCD symptoms aren’t quirks or habits. They’re exhausting, time-consuming, and can deeply interfere with daily life.

You Deserve the Right Support

If you’re wondering about your own experience, or if you already know OCD is taking up too much space in your life, support is available!

As a therapist, I specialize in working with clients navigating OCD, anxiety, and trauma with the goal of helping people to feel more grounded and whole. If you’re interested in working together, let’s schedule a consult.

If you’re here because you’ve been feeling trapped in cycles of doubt, anxiety, or compulsions…I want you to know that you’re not alone, and you’re not broken. With the right tools, understanding, and help it is possible to live a full life outside of OCD’s grip.