3 Ways OCD can Derail Life

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not just about washing hands or checking locks.


In reality, OCD stems from deep-rooted cognitive distortions—patterns of thinking that distort how we perceive situations. These distortions can make things feel more intense, negative, or overwhelming than they truly are, often amplifying doubt and distress.

Though there are many types of cognitive distortions, let's explore three of the most common ones in OCD:


1. Intolerance of Uncertainty

At the core of OCD is an intolerance of uncertainty—the overwhelming need for absolute certainty in order to feel safe. Those with OCD often perceive even the smallest doubt or ambiguity as intolerable. This drives compulsive behaviors, such as repeated checking, asking for reassurance, or overplanning, all aimed at eliminating any uncertainty and ensuring no potential danger or threat will occur.

2. Overestimation of Threat

Another key distortion is the overestimation of threat. People with OCD tend to magnify the likelihood and severity of negative outcomes. For instance, someone who leaves the house after checking the stove repeatedly may fear that leaving it on could lead to a deadly fire, even though all evidence suggests the stove is safe. This exaggerated sense of threat heightens anxiety and fuels compulsions in an attempt to prevent the perceived disaster.

3. Overestimation of Responsibility

People with OCD also often experience exaggerated responsibility for preventing harm to themselves or others. This distortion is especially powerful when intrusive thoughts about accidents, harm, or catastrophic events arise. The thought trap lies in believing that failing to prevent harm is the same as causing it. This belief fosters guilt and anxiety, which in turn leads to compulsive behaviors as a form of "protection."


These cognitive distortions are common to some degree in everyone. However, in OCD, they are amplified, making them much harder to manage. Recognizing and confronting these thinking errors requires humility, as it involves accepting our limitations and seeking the healing that God offers.

And healing is possible! By identifying and challenging these distorted thought patterns, individuals with OCD can begin to break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions. With the right tools and therapies, it's entirely possible to develop healthier thinking patterns, reduce OCD symptoms, and lead a more balanced and peaceful life.

Do This One Thing for Addicts in your Life

One shift in mindset can make all the difference with addiction.

Addiction is a spiral that can feel impossible to escape from. There are many reasons for this, but some simple approaches can make a big impact. Primarily, through the “Neri Method”. This method is named after the great saint, Phillip Neri, who was able to be happy, joyous, and free in the midst of an indulgent Rome.

What made him so effective in managing his own desires?

In the end, it boiled down to his daily mindset. Every day, he worked to be continually focused on joy, gratitude, and humor despite his circumstances.

For example, he was known for not taking himself too seriously (One day showing up to a dinner party with one side of his beard shaved off). This humor was contagious to those around him, and he drew many to spend time with him in affirming the goodness of life. This humor paved the way for them to live in positivity and grow in holiness.

In the world of addiction, St. Phillip Neri would not have gone too hard on the bad habit itself. He certainly wouldn’t have justified the behavior, but then again, most addicts already know how their struggle is hurting them. Instead, he would have rejected the negative script and focused on affirmations and the real path towards freedom.


If you see your loved ones struggling with heightened addiction, consider St. Neri’s example. Rather than pinpointing someone’s negative experiences, try to identify the things worth affirming.

Write down the positive things you can highlight with them and call it your “gift list”. Identify the joyful, the humorous, and that which you can be grateful for and make it the focus of your conversation with friends and family..

Will a more positive outlook totally cure someone of their addiction? Probably not. There is often more intensive intervention needed and we’re not downplaying those needs. However, without this mindset you will almost never find your way to freedom. By highlighting these areas of life, you may be giving an even greater gift to others by helping them embrace the mindset that provides freedom from addiction.

St. Phillip Neri of the joyous and free heart, pray for us!