OCD DURING COVID-19: CAUTION VS. COMPULSION

by: Sony Khemlani-Patel, Ph.D.

Are most people with an OCD diagnosis experiencing an increase in symptoms due to the pandemic?

Contrary to what you may predict, the answer is no! In our 40 plus years of treating thousands of patients with OCD, the reality is that OCD is a complex condition involving many fears beyond the commonly known germ contamination. In fact, even contamination concerns vary in content, such as distress with sticky substances, animal feces, household cleaners/chemicals, and exposure to radiation toxicity. Some don't even fear getting ill, but simply have a disgust "icky" reaction. For others, the worst fear is getting loved ones sick rather than a concern for their own safety.

So, you might predict that individuals with germ and illness fears are more likely to be struggling with Covid-19.

Again, this is not necessarily the case! Some of our OCD patients have reminded us that they’ve practiced coping with similar fears for a long time, so feel more prepared for the crisis than the general public. Other factors, such as stage of treatment and life variables can also impact reactions to the pandemic. Out research has shown that one's strong belief in the obsessions, called "overvalued ideation" can also help us predict reactions.

For those struggling to find a balance between caution by following CDC guidelines and compulsions, here are some tips from out staff to help identify OCD fears about the coronavirus.

SIGNS OF OCD RELATED TO COVID

1. SEEKING REASSURANCE FROM OTHERS

Am I clean enough? Will I be safe?

2. TAKING EXTRA PRECAUTIONS

Washing for 2 minutes vs. 20 seconds. Cleaning surfaces or hand washing when you haven't left home.

3. PERSISTENT DOUBT

Did I clean properly? Maybe I missed a spot. What if recommended guidelines are not enough?

4. NEAR CONSTANT "WHAT IF" OR INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS

What if I die? What if the mail carrier sneezed on the newspaper?

5. INCORPORATING PREVIOUS COMPULSIONS INTO COVID FEARS

If you always worried about your coat getting dirty, then worrying about coronavirus on your coat.

6. SENSE OF URGENCY & PANIC

Feeling frightened and anxious much of the day. Urgency and urges to hand wash. Difficulty

7. SEEKING CERTAINTY & CONTROL

Seeking a guarantee that you're not sick. Attempting to control your actions or those of family.