Dbsalliance

Ivan, a 29 year-old lawyer, who struggled with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) tells us what OCD feels like, and how OCD jokes affect people living with the illness. His story is refreshing for young people living with mental illnesses. As someone who never got his parents support in fighting OCD, Ivan also offers valuable insights for parents listening. Continuing the theme from Part 1 of In Other Words (bipolar interview) and Part 2 (ADHD inteview), we explore mental illness stigma. No one says "Gosh, I'm so cancer today" when they wake up tired but people do say things like "I cleaned my car this morning; I'm OCD today." We brainstorm Other Words besides "OCD" to describe people who don't have OCD. Food for Thought/Suggestions for Comments: Were you encouraged by Ivan's story? Has his story helped you better understand what OCD feels like? Do you ever hear people say things like "He's so OCD" as a joke? Need help for yourself or someone else? Check out the International OCD Foundation at www.