There are so many myths surrounding mental illnesses. We are busting them one at a time! In this edition we tackle the often-misunderstood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD causes people to be troubled by persistent ideas and feelings (obsessions) that trigger repetitive actions and rituals (compulsions).

OCD is only about the fear of germs.

Although the fear of germs is one of the more common obsessions of OCD, it is far from the only one. A person’s obsession can focus on thoughts of violence, contamination, religion, sex, responsibility, identity, or perfectionism (and these are just some examples). Obsessions and compulsions are often different from one person to another. What is common in all obsessions is a recurring thought, image, or worry that causes a person anxiety and distress.

Compulsions are always physical actions like hand washing.

Compulsions are an action a person with OCD does in order to calm and quiet the obsession that is causing them distress. Handwashing or repeatedly checking that the stove is turned off are common examples, but the compulsion itself does not have to be a physical action. Non-physical examples include repeating a certain phrase in their head or counting to a specific number until they feel like they have completed the compulsion.

Everyone has a bit of OCD. Some people just have it worse.

Sometimes someone might say they are feeling “a bit OCD” because they feel like they are being neater or cleaner than usual, or because they like things to be organized. Language like that can harm someone who is actually experiencing the devastating effects of OCD. Using the term OCD as a character trait not only contributes to the misunderstanding of the actual condition, but can also add to the stigma associated with OCD. This can lead to people who are actually living with OCD to not seek help or to not be taken seriously. Language is important.

You must have compulsions in order to have OCD.

It is not necessary to have both obsessions and compulsions in order to be dealing with or be diagnosed with OCD. Some people have specific obsessions that make them uncomfortable, but the obsessions cannot always be alleviated by compulsions. Some people do not have compulsions, only obsessions. OCD can look different from one person to another.

OCD is caused by trauma in childhood.

When someone has a condition like OCD, it does not automatically mean they have experienced trauma in their childhood or adult life. Research shows that OCD might stem from miscommunication between the front and back parts of the brain, while other studies show that it might be caused by overactivity in certain places in the brain such as the orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortexes, the thalamus and the basal ganglia. Researchers continue to try and understand why some people develop mental illnesses, but they do know that trauma is only one possible cause.

OCD is untreatable—you’re stuck with it for life.

Like many other mental health conditions we have seen in this series, there are various treatment options for those living with OCD. What usually works the best is a combination of two or more therapies. These can include Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), medication (under the supervision and prescription of a health professional), and support groups. Certain lifestyle changes like regular exercise, proper eating, and incorporating mindfulness techniques can also help improve quality of life. For those who have tried different treatments and have had difficulty with success, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or Deep Brain Stimulation are possibilities.

Visit amiquebec.org/OCD for organizations that can help you or a loved one.

–Gabrielle Lesage
From Share&Care Spring 2026
Visit amiquebec.org/sources for references