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Rumination is sneaky. One of the most common mental compulsions in OCD, it often disguises itself as problem-solving, or feels like you’re just being logical or thorough—but in reality, it’s just another way for OCD to demand your energy.

Here are 6 ways you might notice rumination. Have you experienced any? 

Not all OCD is visible. Many people deal with mental compulsions, like replaying memories, counting in your head, or trying to “figure it out” certain thoughts.

While they may not be visible to others, these compulsions are just as real and distressing as their physical counterparts—but regardless of how your OCD shows up, there’s hope and treatment that can help.

Have you experienced mental compulsions? What other examples would you add? 

Self-care is important, but practicing it can be easier said than done—especially with OCD in the picture. OCD can frame compulsions as self-care and hijack our routines, blurring the line between healthy habits and compulsive rituals.

But make no mistake: Healthy and fulfilling self-care is possible with OCD. With the right knowledge, you can build a self-care routine that helps you feel your best, reinforces the effects of evidence-based OCD treatment, and doesn’t become compulsive.

Here are 8 self-care strategies for OCD:  https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/self-care-for-ocd  

How do you practice self-care with OCD? 

Noticing signs of OCD in someone you care about can bring a mix of concern and confusion. Do you say something? How do you bring it up? Will they listen?

Early conversations matter, since many people with OCD wait 14-17 years before finding the right care. You can help reduce that gap with empathy and knowledge.

Here’s a quick guide to knowing when to speak up—and how to do it in a way that builds trust:  https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/spotting-ocd-in-others 

Media: OCD is just being tidy and liking things symmetrical.

Reality: OCD can involve violent, taboo, and disturbing intrusive thoughts that create doubt and fear around what you care about most. It can consume your time with exhausting compulsions, and sometimes, it’s completely invisible to others.

It’s not a joke or a quirk. It’s one of the most debilitating mental health conditions.

What other OCD myths have you seen in the media? 

OCD compulsions are often misunderstood and misrepresented. Here are three common myths about OCD compulsions, contrasted with the reality of what living with OCD can be like.

What other myths have you heard about compulsions? 

Being an athlete with OCD can come with unique challenges—as NFL kicker Zane Gonzalez knows firsthand. Zane opened up about his OCD on our podcast, sharing the full story behind his viral pre-kick routine, and why he seized the moment to educate others about OCD and its impact.

🎥 Watch the full interview:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoK0k... 

Here's more information about how OCD can affect training or sports performance. Have you ever experienced this? 

Being a student is already demanding, but when you’re also struggling with OCD symptoms, it can feel overwhelming. Even everyday tasks—like sending an email or choosing a seat in class—can become sources of endless checking, perfectionism, and terrifying intrusive thoughts.

If you relate and you’re feeling scared, confused, alone, or unsure about what to do next, we’re hosting a free, virtual OCD Connect & Support event just for students, where you can meet others who understand in a safe, supportive space.

Each event is led by a college student in the NOCD Community who has struggled with OCD themselves, like Olivia, a Flagler College alumni whose OCD was misdiagnosed as anxiety for nearly 6 years. You'll get to hear their journeys from struggling with OCD to living in recovery and ask any questions you have—plus you'll also meet other people with similar experiences.

➡️ Learn more & register here:  https://calendly.com/nocdmeetandgreets/students 

Social media plays a huge role in many people’s everyday lives, and it’s not uncommon to have a complicated relationship with it—especially if you have OCD.

On one hand, social platforms can connect us with loved ones and others in the OCD community, and provide us with inspiration and entertainment. On the other, they can also be a source of comparison, FOMO, and seemingly endless opportunities for obsessive thinking.

As a social media manager with OCD, Brenna Posey knows this firsthand. Through multiple OCD themes, she’s experienced how tricky it can be to scroll while dealing with intrusive thoughts.

Here are the dos and don’ts she uses to protect her mental health while being active online.  https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/social-media-tips/  

What’s your experience using social media with OCD? Which tips have been helpful for you? 

OCD can contribute to anxiety, perfectionism, and decision paralysis—all of which can make it difficult to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner—but there are ways to address these issues with the right strategies.

Here are a few tips for managing procrastination when you’re living with OCD that can help improve productivity and reduce feelings of shame:  https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/ocd-and-procrastination 

Has OCD ever caused you to procrastinate? Which strategies have you tried to manage it?