So frustrated with the misunderstanding of OCD today. A friend of mine gave me a bag with gifts for every day until Christmas (like an advent calendar sort of thing). Because of my OCD, I have a hard time handling/touching things that have come into my home from "outside." I thought this would be a great exposure having to open a gift each day this month. I was even considering telling this friend about my OCD, explaining ERP, and how her gifts could help me in my recovery. Well we were just texting one another about what we're baking for the holidays and how we like the combination of sweet and salty. Then she says this: "I'm surprised I like that combo because I have always had OCD tendencies and hated mixing flavors and foods like that." UGH. Just when I think it might be safe to share my "secret." Nope. Not gonna happen. Now I'm just mad. Thanks for letting me vent.

Hello!! I know that was probably difficult for you. I had to deal with this myself at work when my boss was saying he was OCD with how things are presented or displayed. I got really annoyed and offended. “I’m so OCD” is overly saturated and very ignorant. I think it’s great you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and doing exposures! It seems like you have a good friend and maybe this will be a good time to tell her how you feel and what you’re struggling with. In order to minimalize the stigma and stereotypes, we need to address and correct them. Maybe you won’t have to go into much detail, but it might be a good idea to say you were hurt. I’m sure she will understand and show compassion.

Yeah....it is so frustrating. Theres a while marketing campaign around OCD as Obsessive Christmas Disorder. I didn't want to tell my mom about my OCD. But she caught me at a weak moment and basically guilt tripped me by saying that I always shut her out and never tell her anything. I knew she wouldn't be able to handle a lot of detail, so I gave her just bare bones. When I got done, she says "I think everyone is a little OCD." It was so hurtful and so dismissive. It sent me into a massive spiral and I almost quit treatment because of it. I started doubting myself, my counselor, and my treatment. A friend helped me through it. My mom just doesn't get it when it comes to mental illness. I have offered her opportunities to get educated, but she refuses.

I know she loves me, and I know she has good intentions, but it still hurts

Thank you so much for your responses. I have thought about this a bit and do realize that she likely doesn't mean any harm, and to be fair she doesn't know that I have OCD (not that it makes it okay to use the term incorrectly!). OCD is so commonly misused in everyday conversation, that many people just have no idea that their usage could be damaging or offensive. I'm going to write up an email tonight (that I may or may not send) but at least it will help me organize my thoughts. I really appreciate you both sharing your experiences and insight.