One could argue that obsessive compulsive disorder has been co-opted as a “casual descriptor” for people who are kind of neat, instead of having a disorder that has debilitating effects as defined in the DSM-5. But how do you know if you have the right to say things like, “This is so typical of me. I have OCD”? Take this quiz to find out if you have been diagnosed with OCD by a medical professional or if you should really stop being like, “OMG! I have OCD!” whenever you reorganize the fridge.
Have you ever seen a doctor about your suspected OCD?
- Yes, and after rigorous testing, the doctor confirmed that I do have it. I currently manage it by taking an SSRI and engaging in talk therapy.
- No, but one time my friend came over and saw that I arrange my clothes by season and was like, “Woah…you’re so OCD.” So, I’m pretty sure that counts. She’s in med school!
Do you spend hours a day trying to reign in uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions)?
- Yes. I was having recurring intrusive thoughts, which prompted me to seek help from a mental health professional. This mental health professional quickly diagnosed me with OCD.
- I wouldn’t say hours, but sometimes when I think about something, I think about it a lot! I go on Wikipedia and everything. Is that what you mean?
Do you engage in repetitive behaviors (compulsions), such as checking, cleaning, or counting?
- Yes, and it was ruining my goddamn life. That is, until I was diagnosed with OCD.
- Huh? Nope. That sounds pretty bad though – wishing those weirdos the best.
Do your anxieties and behavior interfere with your day-to-day life, making it harder to go about normal tasks?
- Yes. 100%. I have OCD. I have debilitating OCD.
- No, but my OCD makes me color-code my pens or stack my dishes sometimes, and that takes about 15 seconds. That’s time I’ll never get back!
Results:
Mostly 1s: You have OCD! Odds are you already knew this, as you have been diagnosed with the condition already. Feel free to talk about it – or don’t! You do you.
Mostly 2s: Sweet baby boy. You need to stop being like, “OMG I have OCD!” because you simply do not. You are particular about things, sure, but that’s different – all love. If this doesn’t sit well with you, feel free to see a doctor – maybe you do have it! But until then, maybe stick to saying things like, “This is typical me, as I am particular by nature,” or “Classic me, being an organized individual!” or even “I’m such a Virgo!”
