OCD Isn’t What You Think

I was diagnosed with OCD before I was diagnosed with Autism. And it wasn’t that my treatment team misdiagnosed me, but because autism and the way it presents in individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) is not commonly known.

Most autistics have OCD but not all are diagnosed. People are generally only diagnosed with OCD if it prevents their ability to function, otherwise, it is generally categorized as OCD tendencies.

There are many stereotypes about OCD so I always struggled with accepting this label as I didn’t fit into these categories. I would count my steps in multiples of five while others compulsively washed their hands. I would twist my plate around before eating and others would compulsively clean. I would put on my clothes and shoes 5 times while others would organize their binder. I would have scary thoughts about my family dying if I don’t snap while others move something to be “just right”.

These are all things that can be OCD. But just because you clean, doesn’t mean you have OCD. Just because you have a routine doesn’t mean you have OCD. OCD is when not doing the compulsion causes extreme anxiety that prevents your ability to function. Phrases like “I’m so OCD” can be hurtful to those struggling daily as it invalidates their experience.

Everyone’s experiences should be heard and valued. I value your experiences.

I hope my experience with OCD helps you understand what it can look like. Feel free to reach out with questions!

Thanks for being here :)