#73 Beyond the ‘I’m So OCD’ Meme: Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with Dr. John Guerry

From TikTok videos of organizing and cleaning content to everyday “I’m so OCD” comments, the term gets tossed around a lot, but what does OCD actually mean? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. John Guerry, a licensed clinical psychologist, who helps us break down the difference between personal quirks, perfectionism, and a true Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) diagnosis. He explains how intrusive thoughts and compulsions create distressing cycles, why people with OCD often suffer in silence, and how symptoms can be hidden behind “high-functioning” appearances.In this episode we explore:Why intrusive thoughts are common for everyone—but stick differently for people with OCDHow compulsions bring short-term relief but reinforce the disorder over timeThe difference between OCD and OCPD (Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder)Lesser-known themes beyond contamination, like morality (“scrupulosity”), harm, or “just right” OCDWhy the college years can trigger worsening symptomsThe role of family, peers, and environment in either accommodating or unintentionally feeding OCDDr. Guerry also highlights why OCD tends to latch onto the things people value most—family, relationships, morality—and why people with OCD often have such “big hearts.”Resources Mentioned:International OCD Foundation – trusted information, screeners, and a directory for finding evidence-based OCD therapists.https://iocdf.orgAbout Our Guest:Dr. John Guerry is a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety and OCD. He practices at Harbor, a group practice in the Philadelphia area, dedicated to treating anxiety disorders, OCD, and related conditions.https://www.harborpa.comWant to share your story, give us feedback or offer up an episode idea? Reach out! We'd love to hear from you. Insta:  @collegeisfinepodcastTik Tok: @collegeisfinepodcastEmail: [email protected] is Deadbeats by Rex Banner