How OCD Shapes Lives Through Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects between one and three percent of the population, according to psychotherapist Paul Lukas. The condition can manifest in two main ways: through repetitive compulsive behaviours or through distressing intrusive thoughts. For those living with it, the impact on daily life can be severe. Céline Müller has faced OCD since her teenage years, alongside being on the autism spectrum. Her intrusive thoughts centred on her sexual orientation, convincing her she might be gay despite identifying as straight. These obsessive doubts also extended to fears of harassing strangers in public.

Mirco Biscioni's struggle with OCD began in childhood. Last autumn, his symptoms intensified, leading to extreme washing and checking rituals. A fear of germs made him track every object he touched after handling a doorknob. At night, he developed a complex routine to prevent imagined gas poisoning while asleep.

Over the past two decades, OCD treatment has advanced significantly. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) are now the leading approaches worldwide, including in Switzerland. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of digital tools like mobile apps and teletherapy, offering more accessible support. Medication, particularly SSRIs, remains a key option, while research into neurobiological treatments, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, continues to grow.

OCD presents in countless forms, with no fixed diagnostic criteria. Warning signs include compulsions that consume excessive time or disrupt daily functioning. Lukas highlights Sexual Orientation OCD as one example, where individuals question their sexuality despite clear self-identification. For people like Müller and Biscioni, OCD creates persistent challenges that go beyond typical worries. Treatment options have expanded, combining therapy, medication, and digital support. Early recognition of symptoms remains crucial for managing the disorder effectively.