People do not choose to have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is a neurobiological condition.

Here are some common misperceptions about the cause of OCD:

• STRESS: Stress does not cause OCD; however, symptoms sometimes begin after a severe trauma. If OCD symptoms are already present, stress can worsen those symptoms.  Death of a loved one, big transitions, illness, etc. can affect OCD. Even positive events such as holidays, moving to a new city, or having a child can exacerbate OCD symptoms; however, it does not cause OCD.
• PARENTING: There is no evidence that parenting or discipline strategies cause OCD.  Parents should not be blamed when a child exhibits symptoms of this disorder.
• FAMILY ACCOMMODATIONS: Accommodating OCD symptoms do not cause of the condition; however, accommodations can influence the maintenance of symptoms. Examples of accommodations include: Enabling complete avoidance of stressful situations, providing verbal or behavioral reassurance, and completing rituals with or for the person. Although accommodations are typically coming from a place of love and support, these behaviors may be enabling versus treating the problem. Similarly, responding in a critical, confrontational, or unsupportive way may also fuel OCD symptoms. Guidance from an OCD specialist can teach you strategies for providing support and to an individual suffering from OCD. Reach out to a qualified mental health provider today for more information.

Reach out to a qualified anxiety specialist today to learn how to overcome your OCD!