Has your OCD increased with the coronavirus pandemic? (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)

If you have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD as we all know it, you know that managing even a normal day is not an easy task. So, when a global pandemic like the Corona virus comes, this situation can be even worse with the fear of the virus . It is very normal, so don't worry. Let's talk about this.

Why is OCD increasing during the coronavirus pandemic?

Simply put, in a condition called OCD, we have recurring, uncontrollable, and unwanted thoughts . We call these ``Obsessions.'' These thoughts cause us to feel great fear and pressure. To get rid of that pressure, we do certain things repeatedly. For example, when we think our hands are dirty, we wash our hands until the soap runs out. We call these actions `` Compulsions .''

Now think about it, what did the health authorities tell us about the coronavirus pandemic?

• Always wash your hands well.
• Stay away from others (Social Distancing).
• Disinfect frequently touched areas.
• Stay away from sick people.

These tips are essential for staying healthy. But for someone with OCD, these very things are the triggers for their ``Obsessions`` and ``Compulsions``.

The difference between a healthy habit and an OCD one

We all took precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic. But there's a big difference between something that's healthy and a symptom of OCD. Let's understand this with a table.

Can the coronavirus pandemic cause OCD?

No. This is a question that many people ask. OCD is not a sudden illness. It is influenced by many factors, such as genetic influences, changes in brain chemistry, and learned behavior patterns over time. It is a long-term condition.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused us all to feel stressed and anxious. That's normal. But someone without OCD can live with that fear. That fear doesn't completely disrupt their daily activities . But someone with OCD has a hard time escaping this stress. They get stuck in a cycle of thoughts and actions.

Things you can do to control this situation

If you're already receiving treatment for OCD, you may be worried about what this pandemic will do to your treatment, whether it will set back the progress you've made so far, or if you're not getting the treatment you need, you may be wondering how you'll cope with this added stress.

But remember, there are ways to find relief even during these difficult times.

• Trust your doctor: Talk to your doctor about this. Tell him about your fears and thoughts. Follow his advice exactly. For example, wash your hands only as often and at the times recommended by health authorities. Remember that doing more than that will only increase your OCD and not protect you from the virus.

• Get only reliable information: Don't believe every message that is 'forwarded' on `WhatsApp' or every post you see on `Facebook'. They will only increase your fear. Get information only from reliable sources like the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization. Watch the news only once or twice a day. Don't think about it all day.

• Stay away, but don't be alone: ​​Social distancing doesn't mean completely cutting yourself off from society. Keep the necessary distance, but talk to your friends and family on the phone or through a video call. Share your feelings with someone you trust.

• Be kind to yourself: This is a difficult time for everyone. Don't beat yourself up about how you're coping. Remind yourself, "It's not my fault I'm behaving this way, it's my illness." You're trying your best.

• Engage in things that calm the mind:
• Listen to the songs you like.
• Read a good book.
• Take a short walk in the garden and breathe in the fresh air.
• Watch a TV show or movie that brings you joy.
• Engage in exercises that focus the mind, such as meditation and yoga .

If you find this situation difficult to control, do not hesitate to see your doctor. If necessary, seek the help of a psychiatrist or a counselor. You are not alone in this battle.