While perimenopause is typically associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, there is increasing recognition that it may also influence obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Some women with no prior history of OCD may develop symptoms during perimenopause, while others with pre-existing OCD might experience a flare-up.
Individuals with OCD are more likely to have sleep problems such as delayed circadian rhythms (DSPD) and insomnia symptoms. Understanding the interplay between OCD and DSPD (and sometimes Insomnia) is essential for both providers and clients, particularly when engaging in evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment.
We’ve all probably heard someone described as “so OCD” and you may have even identified yourself this way! Many fans insist on wearing their lucky shirts to watch all Alabama or Auburn football games and may even have other rituals that they always do leading up to Game Day. My Granny and I took a wonderful trip to Ireland together many years ago and had the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which would allegedly give us the gift of eloquence. She wanted to disinfect the stone prior to kissing it! Are these actions indicative of OCD?