When someone you care about is struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you naturally want to support them. But if you’ve never experienced OCD yourself, it can sometimes be hard to know the right words to say—or what to avoid saying.

At its core, offering support is about meeting your loved one with empathy, patience, and understanding. Here are a few common phrases to steer clear of—and what you might say instead to truly encourage someone living with OCD.

1. "Relax" or "Just stop worrying."

It’s important to remember that OCD isn’t simply about worrying too much. It involves intense, recurring unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or urges to perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These experiences can feel overwhelming and are often driven by deep anxiety—not something your loved one can just "turn off."

Telling someone to relax, calm down, or stop worrying may make them feel misunderstood or dismissed.

Instead, try saying:
"I can see this is really hard for you. I’m here for you. How can I support you right now?"

2. "I’m so OCD about that."

Many people mistakenly think OCD is just about being neat or particular. In reality, OCD is a serious mental health condition that can deeply disrupt someone's daily life. When we casually say things like, “I’m so OCD about my closet” or “I’m OCD about my emails,” it can unintentionally minimize the real struggles someone with OCD faces.

Unless you have a formal diagnosis of OCD and are sharing your lived experience, it’s best to avoid using the term lightly.

Instead, try saying:
"I’m learning more about OCD and I admire how strong you are in managing it."

3. "I thought you were over that."

OCD is a chronic condition. Even when symptoms improve, it’s common for them to ebb and flow over time. Saying things like "I thought you were past this" can leave your loved one feeling ashamed, frustrated, or even more isolated.

Healing from OCD often looks like ongoing progress, not a permanent cure—and your understanding makes a difference.

Instead, try saying:
"I know you’ve worked so hard. I'm proud of you. I'm here no matter what today looks like."

We’re Here to Support You

If you or someone you love is living with OCD and looking for help, we want you to know you’re not alone. At Creative Family Counseling and Coaching, we regularly walk alongside individuals who are navigating the challenges of OCD, and we deeply understand the impact it can have.

Are you looking for a reputable therapist with experience treating obsessive-compulsive disorder? Your search can end with the skilled team at our practice. We regularly treat patients who are struggling with OCD, and we understand the impact this disorder can have on someone’s life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.