Disclosing a mental illness to someone can be very anxiety provoking, but it can also be a good step in the right direction towards recovery. There are many things to consider when disclosing to another. What do you disclose, how much do you disclose, who do you disclose to, when do you disclose… the list goes on and on. The International OCD Foundation posted a blog with tips on how to disclose your OCD and how to receive disclosure compassionately as a loved one. We have summarized below some of the tips they shared in their blog.
Tips to help disclose your OCD to a loved one:
- You don’t have to tell them you have OCD. Not everyone understands diagnostic terms, or all the details of OCD. There are many different types of OCD and it’s different for everyone. They recommend sharing some of what you are experiencing. For example, sharing with them that you’re having troubling intrusive thoughts.
- Remember the purpose of your disclosure: to show your loved one you have been in pain and for them to empathize with you. This will help you determine how much information you want to share with them and how in depth you want to be.
- Realize no one will be able to understand you 100%. Your OCD belongs to you, and no one else. It is likely that people with OCD may experience things very similar to you, but each individual is different. Your loved one doesn’t need to understand you completely to emphasize with you or support you.
Tips for loved ones receiving this information:
- Acknowledge their pain and empathize with them. It took a lot for them to open up to you, acknowledge that. Don’t press for more information or go straight into problem-solving mode. Take a moment to be present.
- Accommodating their OCD won’t help them, but you also shouldn’t immediately stop all accommodations. Work with them to reduce your involvement in their rituals. A therapist can help with this process.
To read the article on the IOCDF website, click here!
How to Get Help for OCD in San Jose/Los Gatos
The Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center in Silicon Valley (San Jose/Los Gatos) specializes in therapy and counseling with adults, children and teenagers. Call us in Los Gatos at (408) 384-8404 or Click to send an email for more information on how we can help you or your family members improve your outlook.
Silicon Valley Communities We Serve
Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley offers evidence-based therapy for Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder near the following Silicon Valley/San Jose communities:
San Jose Therapy Counseling • Saratoga Therapy Counseling • Los Gatos Therapy Counseling • Monte Sereno Therapy Counseling • Cupertino Therapy Counseling • Campbell Therapy Counseling • Mountain View Therapy Counseling • Los Altos Therapy Counseling • Sunnyvale Therapy Counseling • Santa Clara Therapy Counseling
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