The True Cost of Letting OCD Control Your Health

Living with OCD can be challenging, to say the least. It’s a mental disorder that typically triggers unwanted, intrusive thoughts, which cause anxiety. This then leads to repetitive behaviors or compulsions in an attempt to alleviate that anxiety.

While a certain level of OCD can be manageable, it can become all-consuming, interfering with daily life and taking an emotional toll on the individual.

But beyond the life interference, what is the true cost of letting OCD control your health? It’s important to examine the physical, emotional, and financial impact that OCD can have.

The Physical Cost

The physical toll that OCD can take on an individual can vary widely and depends on the severity of symptoms, as well as the specific compulsions that they engage in. Many people with OCD report feeling constantly exhausted and run down as a result of their symptoms.

Compulsions, such as handwashing or checking the stove multiple times, can lead to skin irritations and damage to body tissues. The repeated stress response to the intrusive thoughts can also lead to digestive issues, tension headaches, and chronic muscle tension.

The Emotional Cost

The emotional cost of OCD can be equally, if not more, damaging than the physical consequences. The anxiety and intrusive thoughts can be incredibly stressful, leading to depression, mood swings, and even suicidal ideation.

It’s not uncommon for people with OCD to withdraw from their social circles, leading to isolation and feelings of loneliness.

The Financial Cost

The financial implications of living with OCD can be substantial. Many individuals find themselves paying for ongoing mental health treatments, and some may even need to take time off work or school to address their symptoms.

In addition, the cost of managing certain compulsions, such as the need to constantly clean or sanitize, can be expensive. This can include purchasing specialized cleaning products, which can add up over time.

An Example

Consider the case of a woman we’ll call “Jane.” Jane has been living with OCD since her early twenties and now at the age of 35, her symptoms have become significantly worse.

She spends hours every day cleaning her house, often throwing away perfectly good items in the process. Her anxiety levels are so high that she can’t concentrate at work, leading to missed deadlines and subsequent job insecurity.

Jane has been in and out of therapy and has tried multiple medications, but the cost of these treatments has mounted. She’s had to take significant time off work to attend appointments, which has further harmed her financial situation.

Conclusion

Living with OCD is difficult, but the true cost of letting it control your life can be disastrous. From the physical implications to the emotional and financial toll, it’s essential to seek treatment and support before symptoms escalate.

While there is no cure for OCD, there are many treatments available that can help individuals manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Don’t suffer in silence – speak to a healthcare professional today.