The role of the family in OCD: accompanying, understanding and collaborating
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) not only impacts the affected individual but also their immediate environment, especially their family. Family members often experience a mixture of worry, exhaustion, and frustration , unsure how to respond to their loved one's obsessions and compulsions.
In this context, the role of the family can become an essential resource for promoting recovery and improving the person's quality of life (Albert et al., 2017; Peris et al., 2019). Research shows that family involvement , when well-directed, contributes to treatment adherence and reduces distress (Lebowitz et al., 2012).
Understanding OCD from lived experience
Those who live with someone with OCD know that repetitive behaviors, rituals, or compulsions are not the result of willpower or a simple whim. They are attempts to alleviate very intense anxiety. Recognizing this helps reduce judgment and allows for a more empathetic approach.
Having access to clear and tailored information is key. There are associations, professionals, and digital resources—such as SOM Mental Health 360º—that can guide families. In this regard, organizations like TOC Catalunya work to raise awareness of the realities faced by people with this disorder and their families, offering spaces for mutual support and training.
Maria dels Àngels Giralt Ruiz
To accompany without getting lost
In many homes, with the intention of alleviating the suffering of a loved one, family members end up participating in rituals or adapting daily life to the disorder. Although born of love, in the long term this can perpetuate the symptoms. Therefore, a balance is necessary: providing support with understanding, but without reinforcing the compulsions . Families often need guidance on how to do this appropriately. Furthermore, since compulsions can change over time, collaboration with professionals is essential for more tailored support (Thompson-Hollands et al., 2014).
Collaborate with professionals
The treatment of OCD, especially exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, requires consistency and support. In this process, the family can be an important ally . Establishing fluid communication channels between professionals and family members is not always easy, but when spaces for listening are created, trust is strengthened and useful information is shared that complements the clinical perspective (Lebowitz et al., 2012).
Promoting this collaboration, while respecting each role, allows treatment to be experienced in a more shared and less solitary way. Specific spaces for family members—such as psychoeducational or mindfulness groups offered by associations like TOC Catalunya—help them better understand their role as caregivers, preventing them from becoming overwhelmed and building a relationship of trust with the professionals.
With verified information, healthy boundaries, and collaboration with professionals, the family can become a pillar of support and resilience.
Take care of yourself so you can take care of others
The emotional impact on family members is real and often invisible. Remembering that they also need spaces for rest and support is essential for providing sustainable support.
A hopeful outlook
Although the journey with OCD isn't always easy, family support can make a significant difference. With reliable information, healthy boundaries, and collaboration with professionals, the family can become a pillar of support and resilience .
Author's note: I am the mother of a person with OCD and a facilitator of mindfulness workshops at the OCD Catalunya association. I write this article based on my personal experience and work with other families, with the conviction that conscious support and respectful collaboration among all involved can transform how we experience OCD.
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