These days, references to mental health diagnoses are everywhere. People casually mention their
OCD, ADHD, or anxiety in everyday conversation. Social media is overflowing with self-help
and therapy accounts offering tips for managing anxiety, stress, depression – you name it.
OCD, ADHD, or anxiety in everyday conversation. Social media is overflowing with self-help
and therapy accounts offering tips for managing anxiety, stress, depression – you name it.
On one hand, this is wonderful. We’re de-stigmatizing mental health and making it easier to talk
about our struggles. But on the other hand, it can start to feel like everything is pathological, like
every human experience is a red flag. Worried about that test? Must be anxiety. Double-checked
that the door was locked? Here comes OCD.
Let’s pump the brakes for a moment and talk about what actually warrants concern versus what’s
just part of being human.
So, what’s the difference?
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is: Is this impacting my ability to function in
daily life? This isn’t a perfect measure, but it’s a helpful landmark for gauging the intensity of
what you’re experiencing.
For example, feeling nervous before a test is normal. Having such intense anxiety that you can’t
study, miss the exam entirely, or avoid taking classes altogether – that’s when it’s interfering with
your life.
Checking that you locked the door once or twice? Totally normal. Having distressing, intrusive
thoughts that only quiet down after you check the lock ten times, making you perpetually late for
work and exhausted from the ritual – that’s getting in the way of your daily functioning.
Here’s what else to consider:
• Duration: Has this been going on for weeks or months, not just a few rough days?
• Intensity: Are your symptoms overwhelming or just uncomfortable?
• Distress: Is this causing significant emotional pain or interfering with your relationships?
• Avoidance: Are you changing your life to accommodate these feelings – skipping events,
avoiding people, or withdrawing from things you used to enjoy?
The bottom line: It’s okay to have hard days, anxious moments, or quirky habits. You’re allowed
to be human without turning every emotion into a diagnosis. But if you’re noticing patterns that
are making your life smaller, harder, or less fulfilling – that’s worth paying attention to.
You don’t need to have it “bad enough” to deserve support. If something is bothering you and
affecting your quality of life, that’s reason enough to reach out. Therapy isn’t just for crisis
moments – it’s for anyone who wants to feel better and live more fully.
Not sure if what you’re experiencing is “normal” or worth exploring? Let’s figure it out together.
