OCD Awareness Week is October 11-17.  This year's theme - "That's OCD" - seeks to highlight the many forms in which OCD manifests. 

How many subtypes of OCD exist?  This list from the International OCD Foundation includes many OCD subtypes of which you may not be aware.    For instance, everyone is familiar with Contamination OCD, but what about Scrupulosity, Harm, or Existential OCD? 

Beyond subtypes, mental health professionals are hoping this week helps those who suffer to find help.  OCD is treatable with the right strategies, which may involve medication, therapy, and engaging the awareness and support of family members and partners.

The gold standard of therapy for OCD remains Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  Inferential based CBT is also gaining traction as an effective modality. 

This OCD Awareness week I encourage everyone to learn a bit about this difficult and seemingly mysterious illness.  Resources, information, and treating provider referrals are available at ADAA.