Mental health conditions can affect people from any background and manifest differently from one person to another. [iStockphoto]
A person who is neat and organised and prefers things in order is sometimes casually described as having OCD). In this way, the mental illness is viewed as a personality trait to explain tidiness, structure, and attention to detail.
Psychologist Hellen Staula says that OCD is far more complex than a preference for cleanliness and order. Clinically, OCD involves two components: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, fears or images that cause anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental rituals performed to reduce that distress.
“A person with OCD is not simply organised. There is distress and anxiety attached to the behaviour. They feel compelled to repeat certain actions because they fear that if they don’t, something bad might happen,” Hellen says.
The repetitive behaviours can be excessive handwashing, repeatedly checking locks, arranging objects in a precise way or following rigid routines. Interrupting these rituals can trigger intense anxiety and conflict.
