How OCD can impact a person’s ability to work

Lapses in memory, distractions, exhaustion and a host of other conditions can cause individuals to have momentary concerns about what may or may not have been done. For most people, these concerns fade and worry is forgotten in time. For individuals with OCD, however, these concerns can become consuming and can control their lives.

Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental condition. It is characterized by obsessive thoughts or beliefs that drive people to take compulsive actions. For example, a person with OCD may obsess over the idea that their hands are dirty, and their compulsive action may be to wash their hands dozens of time each and every day. Additionally, a person with OCD may fixate on the idea that the doors of their home are unlocked and may drive home repeatedly to check their locks out of a compulsive need to prove their home is secure.

Compulsions related to OCD can dominate an individual’s life. In fact, OCD is often diagnosed when a person’s compulsions take up at least an hour of their day. Because OCD can be controlling and consuming it may serve as the grounds for a claim of disability benefits based on an existing mental condition.

Living with OCD can be a challenge. Working with OCD may be impossible. When OCD or other mental conditions and illnesses impact how North Carolina residents provide for themselves, they may have options to pursue support through disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Potential applicants may need to get more information about their options.