We know it can be difficult for members of the OCD and related disorders community to hear the term OCD misused. People who use OCD as a joke belittle the disorder and contribute to a stigma that prevents many people from seeking treatment. The good news is that together, we can work to educate the public, make a change, and reduce the time it takes for people to get the help they need.

Read on for information on what to do if you’ve just heard someone misuse the term OCD, or if you haven’t but want to help make a change.

If someone is misuing the term OCD on social media:

Whether it’s a company, a celebrity, or an individual you do not know, social media can be a powerful tool to spread misinformation. Luckily, it can be a powerful tool to educate as well. Here are some resources to help you respond to misuses of OCD on social:

If someone is misuing the term OCD elsewhere:

How you can take action now:

Help Spread the Word: #RealOCD PSA

We're so excited to release our new PSA, What the OCD community wants YOU to know about #RealOCD!

Over the past couple of months, we've noticed an uptick in people using the term OCD as an adjective. While we are all experiencing an increase in anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, we want the general public to know that this does NOT necessarily mean they have OCD. We hope this PSA will make a difference. But we need your help! Help share the #RealOCD PSA.