HOCD: Myths and Realities

Introduction

Homosexual obsessive-compulsive disorder (HOCD) is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in which a person experiences unwanted and intrusive thoughts about being gay or lesbian. These thoughts can cause significant distress and anxiety and can lead people to engage in compulsive behaviours in an attempt to reduce their anxiety.

Further reading about HOCD, please see my guide.

Myths about HOCD

There are many myths and misconceptions about HOCD. Some of the most common myths include:

• Myth: HOCD is just a phase.
• Reality: HOCD is a real mental health condition that can cause significant distress and impairment. It is not just a phase that people will eventually grow out of.
• Myth: HOCD is caused by repressed homosexuality.
• Reality: There is no evidence that HOCD is caused by repressed homosexuality. In fact, many people with HOCD are heterosexual and have no desire to be gay or lesbian.
• Myth: People with HOCD are just choosing to be anxious.
• Reality: People with HOCD cannot control their intrusive thoughts or compulsions. They are just as distressed by their symptoms as anyone else.
• Myth: There is no treatment for HOCD.
• Reality: HOCD is a very treatable condition. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for HOCD, and it can help people manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

Realities about HOCD

Here are some of the realities about HOCD:

• HOCD is a very common form of OCD. It is estimated that up to 10% of people with OCD have HOCD.
• HOCD can affect people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
• The symptoms of HOCD can vary from person to person. Some people may experience intrusive thoughts about being gay or lesbian, while others may experience compulsions related to checking their sexual orientation, such as repeatedly looking at pornography or having sex with a partner of the opposite sex to reassure themselves that they are not gay.
• HOCD can be very distressing and can have a significant impact on a person’s life. People with HOCD may avoid social situations, relationships, and activities that they enjoy because they are worried about their intrusive thoughts.

Treatment for HOCD

The most effective treatment for HOCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of therapy that helps people to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. In CBT for HOCD, the therapist will help the person to understand their intrusive thoughts and compulsions, and to develop strategies for coping with them.

CBT for HOCD typically involves exposure and response prevention (ERP). ERP is a type of therapy that involves exposing people to their feared situations and preventing them from engaging in their compulsive behaviours. For example, a therapist might help a person with HOCD to gradually expose themselves to gay-related stimuli, such as gay people or gay pride parades, while preventing them from engaging in compulsions such as checking their sexual orientation.

Coping with HOCD

If you are struggling with HOCD, there are a few things you can do to cope:

• Educate yourself about HOCD. The more you know about HOCD, the better equipped you will be to manage your symptoms.
• Seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
• Join a support group. Talking to other people who understand what you are going through can be very helpful.

Conclusion

HOCD is a real mental health condition that can cause significant distress and impairment. However, it is a very treatable condition. If you are struggling with HOCD, please know that you are not alone and that there is help available.

Additional information

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• International OCD Foundation: https://iocdf.org/
• OCD UK: https://www.ocduk.org/
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America: https://adaa.org/

Please remember that you are not alone and that there is help available. If you are struggling with HOCD, please reach out to a mental health professional for support.