work related OCD

Effective Strategies to Manage OCD at School

Effective Strategies to Manage OCD at School

Navigating school can be challenging for any student, but for those living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), the academic environment often presents unique hurdles. From managing intrusive thoughts during class to handling compulsions in social settings, students with OCD may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or misunderstood. These challenges can impact not only academic performance but also emotional well-being and peer relationships. The good news? With the right tools, support systems, and coping strategies in place, students with OCD can thrive in school.

At Anchor Therapy, we work closely with students, parents, and educators to create supportive environments that reduce anxiety and encourage healthy coping. In this blog, we will explore practical strategies for managing OCD symptoms throughout the school day, from preparing in the morning to handling difficult moments in the classroom. Whether you are a student, parent, or school professional, these tools can help build resilience, foster independence, and promote success both inside and outside the classroom.

What Does OCD At Work Look Like?

What Does OCD At Work Look Like?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as simply a quirk or a preference for neatness but, in a workplace setting, it can show up in ways that are much more complex and sometimes invisible to others. While movies might portray OCD as excessive hand-washing or color-coded organization, the reality for many professionals is an ongoing struggle with intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, and repetitive behaviors that can deeply impact their work performance, focus, and even relationships with colleagues.


In the workplace, OCD might manifest as double- or triple-checking emails before sending, re-reading documents endlessly out of fear of making a mistake, or feeling the urge to meet self-imposed, unattainably high standards. It could also mean avoiding certain tasks altogether due to fear of contamination, failure, or making a wrong decision. Understanding what OCD looks like in a professional environment is key not only for those experiencing it but also for managers and coworkers who want to foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.