By Nancy Virden (c)2024

Comedian Brian Regan confesses in one of his specials that he has OCD. Regan humorously compares his symptoms with the stereotype of keeping the house in perfect order, teasing that people who do that are “really ill.” Mocking his denial over his diagnosis, he claims his need to order his home library according to challenging details such as when he bought the books is “normal.”

OCD is an anxiety disorder and can interfere with functioning. A person with OCD experiences symptoms such as persistent, repetitive, and unwanted thoughts, and intrusive urges or images. Compulsive or ritualistic behaviors are coping mechanisms for getting rid of the thoughts. Stress makes these symptoms worse.

The O stands for obsessive. A mental obsession is not overcome at a friend’s suggestion or by telling the one with the disorder that it is unreasonable. The C stands for compulsive, leaving the person with this disorder (D) feeling powerless over “necessary” behaviors that interrupt a day’s agenda. OCD can be experienced as either obsessive or compulsive or both.

One popular opinion without facts (stigma) about OCD is that people with it are organized, neat, and cannot have a dirty house. That is not true and is an exaggeration of actual symptoms. This anxiety disorder may stop a person from cleaning and make it impossible to finish tasks or hold a job. Relationships may suffer.

I met a woman who could not stop counting. Holding a conversation with her was impossible. Symptoms can be mild and gradually progress in severity. Like all illnesses and disorders, OCD is experienced on a spectrum. If you watched the television show Monk, you have seen a realistic portrayal of some possible symptoms. The character is a police officer, a detective, who cannot hold down his regular job due to OCD symptoms. OCD may create chaos or social withdrawal.

It may seem kind to try to meet a person’s demand offer rescue or join in the behaviors. You may wish to assuage their desperation, fear, and isolation, but remember you matter too. If your friend or loved one is experiencing this disorder, persuade him to tell a therapist or psychiatrist (MD). Remind her that professional mental healthcare provides the tools for self-help. Generally, a combination of medication and talk therapy produces healthy results.

Humble, believing prayer to the God of the Holy Bible is always key. When we accept his process which includes yielding to His Son Jesus, He will lead us to wisdom and the best people to provide it.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

2 Samuel 22:2-3 nlt

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.
He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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