#126 - Why OCD Gets Misdiagnosed

#126 - Why OCD Gets Misdiagnosed

Author: Jenna Overbaugh May 18, 2023 Duration: 19:32

Research shows that, up to 80% of the time, professionals will misdiagnose OCD when it is not a clear-cut, conventional subtype or manifestation (e.g., fear of germs, needing to have things be perfect). The frequency with which OCD is misdiagnosed has devastating and significant impacts. In this episode, I talk about why OCD gets misdiagnosed so often and what we can possibly do to reduce this issue.

I also talk about..

  • How societal beliefs and interpretations of OCD have changed over time
  • Specific ways in which you can advocate to others regarding misdiagnosis and misinformation
  • Systemic issues that directly cause this problem in the first place


Like this podcast? Check out these similar episodes:

Postpartum Rage and How the Health System Fails Mothers

Why It's Hard to Open Up in Therapy

Check out this blog post:

What Is OCD?


Check out my website at www.jennaoverbaughlpc.com

Find me on Instagram and TikTok @jenna.overbaugh

Browse my masterclasses here

Click here to sign up for my free email newsletter and download your instant recovery PDF


Remember: this podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as mental health or medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional advice of your own professional mental health or medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical or mental health professional before trying or implementing any information read here. I am not acting as your therapist or mental health professional and this is not therapeutic advice. My goal is to provide you with options, resources, and information to make an informed decision regarding your mental health.


© 2023 Jenna Overbaugh, LLC


Jenna Overbaugh has spent over fifteen years as a therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety, and she brings that deep, practical experience directly into each episode of All The Hard Things. This isn't about abstract theory; it's about the daily, tangible work of reclaiming your life from the grip of fear and intrusive thoughts. Jenna's voice is a steadying presence, offering a blend of professional insight and genuine compassion that feels like a conversation with a trusted guide. You'll hear actionable strategies for facing the challenges that feel overwhelming, whether they're related to mental patterns, physical wellness, or simply moving through a world that can feel too loud. The podcast serves as an audio companion for anyone tired of feeling held back, providing clarity on how to navigate exposure, sit with discomfort, and build resilience. It’s a space where the hard things-the necessary things-are broken down into manageable steps with encouragement and without judgment. Tune in for honest discussions that demystify therapy concepts, highlight personal victories, and reinforce that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Through this podcast, Jenna extends her practice beyond the office, creating a resource that feels both personal and profoundly useful for anyone on a path toward greater mental and emotional freedom.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

All The Hard Things
Podcast Episodes
#129 - The Power of Social Support in OCD and Anxiety Recovery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:27
In this episode, I talk about the importance and benefits of social support in your OCD and anxiety recovery. I discuss.. - the concept of social support and its significance in mental health recovery - the different typ…
#128 - OCD and Chronic Illness: The Ultimate Unknown [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:01
In this episode, I talk with OCD warrior and mental health advocate, Jessie Burnbaum, about her experience of living with OCD and a chronic illness. Jessie co-founded the IOCDF Chronic Illness/Disability Speciality Inter…
#127 - Mentally Reviewing As A Compulsion in OCD and Anxiety [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:26
In this episode, I discuss one of the most common rituals and safety behaviors in OCD and anxiety: mental review. While we all engage in the process of mentally reviewing old conversations and past events from time to ti…
#125 - What OCD and Anxiety Recovery Looks Like [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:55
In this episode, I talk about my opinions regarding what recovery looks like when you have OCD or anxiety. Specifically, I go over the chronic vs treatable debate, whether there is a "cure" for OCD/anxiety, and why, desp…
#124 - Coping With the Depression That Can Go Along With OCD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:48
In this episode, I discuss depression as a common comorbidity of OCD. We chat about the realities of living with multiple mental health conditions and techniques for coping with both simultaneously. I also talk about.. S…
#123 - Values in OCD and Anxiety Recovery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:24
In this episode, I discuss the importance of values in the manifestation and presentation of OCD and anxiety, including how OCD and anxiety can latch onto anything - typically what you value most. I also talk about.. Way…
#122 - Relationship OCD:  The Basics and How to Cope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:43
In this episode, I share my thoughts and what you need to know about relationship OCD, or when a person struggles with obsessions and compulsions related to important relationships. Specifically, I cover... Common obsess…
#121 - Sneaky Rituals in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:26
In this episode, I talk about how and why OCD can be so dang sneaky! I share my thoughts about the importance of identifying sneaky, subtle rituals you may be doing as well as what to do about them to make sure you’re ge…