During the first confinement, and even afterwards, many people clean their homes and ensure that they remain clean and tidy. This was a good way to spend time, to create an interior space that was more inhabited than ever and to manage the anxieties of this new daily life. If, for many, this new passion for housework was temporary, for some people it was obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD, when left unchecked, can also become problematic and increase the anxiety level of the person suffering from it.
What is OCD?
The acronym OCD, which is commonly used in everyday language, basically refers to obsessive compulsive disorder, a mental disorder that can have a negative impact on daily life. However, the word OCD is often used to refer to the small obsessive-compulsive behaviors that we all have, to varying degrees and levels. This is a normal reflex that the brain develops in order to reassure itself. These “OCDs”, which can take various forms (checking more than once that the door is locked when leaving or that the stove is off, only being able to sleep in perfectly pulled sheets, etc.) thus provide a feeling of control over one’s environment. This is how some people develop an obsession with housework and order: everything must always be clean and in its place.
When does a cleaning OCD becomes problematic?
As long as it is moderate and controlled and helps to decrease rather than increase anxiety levels, a mild obsession with housework is not problematic; however, it can become problematic if it develops into a full-blown obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder can be detected by two main criteria:
- The time allotted to the object of the obsession: If cleaning and tidying become more and more important in daily life (one hour or more each day), to the point of disrupting other activities, this may indicate a control problem.
- The anxiety it causes: At some point, an obsessive-compulsive behavior can be a source of anxiety. In this case, the person may feel that they can never keep everything clean and tidy, causing additional stress and a sense of loss of control. Ultimately, this can indicate or lead to complete disorganization, affecting daily activities and even social interactions.
Cleaning OCD: Stay alert for signs of obsession
It should be noted that a real cleaning OCD (taking up too much space and causing anxiety) does not develop overnight. It first manifests itself by a marked interest in housework and order that quietly takes the form of small obsessions. It is important to remain vigilant in the face of an increase in obsessions (in number, frequency and intensity), which may indicate deeper anxiety problems or lead to real OCD. The associated consequences (disorganization, stress, feelings of distress, social and professional maladjustment) should not be overlooked. When such signs appear, it may be useful to consult a professional psychologist. Through therapy adapted to the problems identified, together you will be able to find strategies to manage your obsessions and control your anxiety.
A psychological follow-up to manage your obsession with cleaning
So, if you believe that housework and the obsession with order and cleanliness are taking up too much space in your life or that of a loved one, or that you are having trouble managing your anxiety, don’t hesitate to call on the services of Clinique GO’s team of recognized psychologists. One of them will be able to follow you in a online consultation to help you regain healthy control over your daily life and your inner space!
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
