Delaware author shares story of lifelong struggle with OCD

Wilmington author Jacqueline Gellens Watson, 91 years old, has written a book about managing her own obsessive compulsive disorder. It’s titled “The Habit.” 

When Jacqueline was a child, in the 1930s and 1940s, mental illness was not widely accepted as a reality in America. Early in life, she developed a mental condition with symptoms of what would later be called obsessive-compulsive disorder. She worried about everything. To cope, she began to sort out systems of repetitive actions whereby she could handle the worries and feel safe. But these habits had to be secretive, because she did not want anyone to think she was crazy. She used to pray that God would help her break her habit, which led to the title of her book.

Over the years, she dealt with the limitations of her disease as best she could. The disorder made her seem slow to some people, because she couldn’t follow directions quickly. She couldn’t hit a softball or a golf ball, so she gave up on sports. But she did well academically, often finishing at the top of her class in school. People just didn’t understand the challenges she lived with every day, because her disability wasn’t visible, and she couldn’t put it into words.

Now she knows that OCD means people repeat actions because this gives them a sense of control and safety. About one in 40 adults are diagnosed with OCD in America each year, but many sufferers feel alone and isolated.

Watson said she is sharing her story to give hope to people who are suffering. “We know more about people living with OCD than ever before, and it is so much easier to get through your days when you have a treatment plan. You don’t have to feel alone, like an oddball, or as if no one understands, because OCD is real, and people today know it is a genuine affliction. Don’t deny yourself the care you need to be happy,” she said.

For more information about “The Habit” by Jacqueline Gellens Watson, go to https://epicauthor.com/thehabit2.