An Interview with OCD

—•—•—•—•—• [Interviewer]: Hello, OCD! Can you please introduce yourself to our readers so they can get to know you better? [OCD]: Hi there! I'm OCD, which stands for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I reside in people's brains and affect their thoughts and behaviors. [Interviewer]: Fascinating! Does that mean you live in my brain too? [OCD]: Well, it's possible, but not guaranteed. To know for sure, you would need to consult with a professional and get diagnosed. OCD doesn't affect everyone, only certain individuals. [Interviewer]: I see. Why is it that you only exist in some people's brains? [OCD]: It's actually related to genetics. Some people's genetic makeup acts as a barrier, making it more difficult for me to take hold. So, in a way, it's like a preference based on genes. [Interviewer]: Ah, I understand now. I thought you were referring to my pants earlier when you mentioned genes! [OCD]: Oh, not at all! I was talking about genetic information, not your actual jeans. By the way, I do love your pants. [Interviewer]: Thank you! How long have you been a part of human lives? [OCD]: I've been around for as long as humans have existed. However, it wasn't until the 1800s that my presence was officially recognized and identified. [Interviewer]: That's relatively recent. Did people struggle with you before that? [OCD]: They certainly did. It was a challenging time for those who experienced my influence. They didn't understand what was happening to them and often felt isolated and alone. [Interviewer]: That must have been incredibly difficult for them to deal with. [OCD]: Absolutely. They lacked the knowledge and support available today, so their options for seeking help were limited. Often they turned to priests or religious leaders, who associated their experiences with possession. [Interviewer]: That's understandable considering the limited understanding at the time. By the way, what's your favorite food, OCD? [OCD]: Well, my 'food' would be fears, insecurities, and doubts. They fuel my presence and keep me active. [Interviewer]: Are those a unique type of 'food'? I haven't come across them before. [OCD]: Actually, you may have experienced them in some form. While they may not be enjoyable or satisfying to you, they provide me with the energy I need to thrive. [Interviewer]: So, without these fears and insecurities, you wouldn't be as active? [OCD]: That's correct. Feeding me with self-love and self-compassion tends to make me less intense and bothersome. It subdues my influence. [Interviewer]: Interesting! Do you have a preference for self-love and self-compassion? [OCD]: Oh, absolutely! In fact, I find comfort and relief when individuals practice self-love and self-compassion. It helps create a sense of inner peace, and I can have a moment of respite from constantly consuming uncertainty and negative thoughts. [Interviewer]: That's an enlightening perspective. It sounds exhausting for both you and those affected by you. [OCD]: It can be quite draining indeed. That's why nurturing oneself with love and compassion can make such a positive difference in managing the impact of OCD. It offers a path towards a more peaceful existence. [Interviewer]: Thank you for sharing your insights, OCD. It's been a pleasure getting to know you better. —•—•—•—•— How I picture OCD in this scenario: (Image off of Bored Panda) ~