

There’s nothing wrong with offering a loved one a bit of reassurance, right? Well, in the case of those with OCD, reassurance can actually make their OCD worse.

OCD sufferers seek reassurance because they have a difficult time dealing with uncertainty. Reassurance from a friend or loved one can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with this uncertainty, but only temporarily. In the long run, reassurance validates their obsession and teaches them to use avoidance as a coping mechanism. Then, you might ask, what are some healthy ways I can offer an OCD sufferer support? Well, here are twenty of them!

Give them a hug (if they are comfortable with this, of course) Give them a ride to their therapy appointment Give them a break sometimes—but also keep them accountable Make them a nice home-cooked meal Gently point out when they are seeking reassurance Join them in their favorite hobby Educate yourself on OCD so you can have a better understanding of what they’re going through Tell them how much you care about them Write them a kind (but not reassuring) note Go for a walk with them Ask them how their treatment is going Celebrate small achievements with them Lend them an ear Get them a book by their favorite author Tell them that you support them Share your own struggles with them Help them with chores/errands Be patient with them Watch a movie with them Most importantly, simply be a friend to them