The term “OCD” is often thrown around casually in conversations and is even joked upon in regard to individuals who adopt perfectionistic quirks. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health disorder that can warrant many individuals not to leave their homes or beds due to persistent negative intrusive thoughts. This disorder can potentially be debilitating and differs drastically from an individual who is overly organized or demonstrates perfectionism. Perfectionism is a character trait, whereas OCD is a mental health disorder.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder can often go undiagnosed, and many individuals may think they have a “type A personality” or consider themselves a “perfectionist.” OCD can also be misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder or obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.