The Difference Between Being a "Perfectionist" and Having OCD
A Fine Line: Separating Perfectionism from OCD
A lot of us want to be the best we can be. We want our plans to go ahead without a hitch, our houses to be clean, and our work to be perfect. This desire for high standards is often called perfectionism. But when does this healthy drive for quality cross the line into something more? When does it become Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? It's a question many people ask, and it's important to understand the difference.
The Heart of Perfectionism
Perfectionism is typically about achieving a goal or a standard. It's often linked to a strong internal motivation to succeed and a desire to avoid making mistakes. For a perfectionist, the pursuit of flawlessness can be a source of pride, even if it sometimes leads to stress. They might spend extra hours on a project to get it just right or meticulously organize their living space to create a sense of calm. The actions are usually goal-oriented, and the person can often choose to stop or ease up when they need to.
The Nature of OCD
OCD is quite different. It isn't just about wanting things to be perfect; it's a condition where a person experiences distressing, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions). These compulsions are not a choice; they are an attempt to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions.
For example, a person with OCD might have a persistent, unwanted thought that their hands are contaminated with germs. To manage this intense anxiety, they may feel compelled to wash their hands repeatedly, sometimes until they are raw. The compulsion provides only temporary relief, and the cycle of obsession and compulsion often repeats itself, taking up a significant amount of time and causing substantial distress.
Key Differences to Consider
- Motivation: A perfectionist is driven by a desire for a high-quality outcome. A person with OCD is driven by an intense need to alleviate anxiety from an unwanted thought.
- Feelings: Perfectionism can bring a sense of accomplishment, even if it's stressful. OCD brings distress, fear, and a sense of being trapped.
- Control: A perfectionist can often choose to let go of a task, even if it's difficult. A person with OCD feels they have little to no control over their compulsions. These behaviours often feel non-negotiable.
- The Role of Neurofeedback: In some cases, people find that certain therapies can help them manage the distress associated with these conditions. For instance, some people explore
Neurofeedback for OCD as a complementary approach. This type of therapy aims to help regulate brain activity, which may help manage the anxiety that fuels the obsessive-compulsive cycle. Another option is looking into Neurofeedback for OCD to help with brain regulation. Some professionals believe that Neurofeedback for OCD may help calm the nervous system.
It’s important to remember that if you are struggling with distressing thoughts or behaviours, seeking professional guidance can be incredibly helpful. A qualified psychologist can help you figure out what you are experiencing and guide you toward a path that feels better. If you or someone you know is struggling, we invite you to connect with a member of our team today to learn more about how we can help.





