Obsessive compulsive disorder and stigmatization

BACKGROUND: Individuals suffering from mental disorder have to deal with both symptoms of their disorders and with stigmatizing attitudes and acts. A particular risk represents internalized stigma, which negatively influences psychological well-being of patients, as well as treatment efficiency. Patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and their family members might be exposed to stigmatization especially when compulsive acts and rituals are performed in public. METHOD: Studies were identified through PUBMED, Web of Science, and Scopus databases as well as existing reviews. The search terms included “obsessive compulsive disorder“, “stigma”, “self-stigma”, psychoeducation“, “psychotherapy“, and “psychosocial treatment“. The search was performed by repeated use of the words in different combinations with no language or time limitations. The purpose of this article is a review of recent research related to OCD and stigmatization. RESULTS: Patients suffering from OCD and their relatives struggle with prejudices and discriminative actions based on the stigma of mental illness. In reaction, they try to keep the diagnosis secret. Family members also take over more responsibilities of patients and assist with performing rituals as the disorder gets worse. All of this creates significant stress and anxiety in families. Depression, substance abuse, criticism, hostile emotions, and perceived stigma are present in these families and lead to an escalation of the symptoms. It seems beneficial to establish support groups for partners and family members of individuals suffering from OCD.