5 days ago

Howie Mandel’s Wife Urged Therapy as OCD Symptoms Worsened

Howie Mandel has talked about having OCD, which is more complicated than simply disliking germs.

OCD can cause upsetting thoughts that will not go away.

It can also make people repeat actions or thoughts to feel less anxious.

These actions might include washing, checking, counting, arranging things or asking for reassurance.

Stress, including the COVID-19 pandemic, can make symptoms worse.

Mandel’s wife, Terry, noticed how much he was struggling and encouraged him to get help.

OCD is treatable with therapy, medicine or both, depending on the person.

People should seek professional help when OCD interferes with everyday life, relationships or work.

OCD is not a failure of willpower.

Key facts

Condition: Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves unwanted obsessions and compulsions or mental rituals.
Public image: Mandel has been widely known as a germaphobe.
Worsening factor: Stress, anxiety and major life changes can intensify OCD symptoms.
Possible symptoms: Checking, washing, arranging, counting, reassurance-seeking and intrusive thoughts can occur.
Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention, is an effective treatment.
Medication: Doctors may prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors depending on individual circumstances.
When to seek help: Professional care is important when symptoms are difficult to control, distressing, time-consuming or disruptive.

firstpost.com · 5 days ago