Ep 2. I Have OCD

As the title of the show suggests, True Life is a documentary TV series that chronicles the lives of real people facing different challenges they have to cope with on a daily basis. In episode 2 of season 8, titled "I Have OCD", viewers get a glimpse into the world of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a mental health condition that can be overwhelming and isolating for sufferers.

The episode follows two young adults in their late twenties who have been diagnosed with OCD and are struggling with the daily challenges of living with the disorder. Firstly, we are introduced to Riana, a 28-year-old mother of two from New Jersey, who has been living with OCD since she was a teenager. She explains how she experiences intrusive thoughts and compulsions that make her feel like she is losing control of her life. Examples of her obsessions include the fear that she may harm her children in some way, wash her hands repetitively, check if the door is locked excessively or make sure the oven is off repeatedly. These thoughts and compulsions have drastically affected her academic and social life, leading her to drop out of college and isolate herself from friends and family.

The second person we meet is Jake, a 29-year-old from New York City who was diagnosed with OCD at the age of 19. He narrates how his disorder manifests itself in the form of skin-picking and hair-pulling that occurs repeatedly, even to the extent that it affects his daily routine, his work and social life. The compulsions make him feel guilty, embarrassed and ashamed of himself, leading him to limit his social interactions for fear of anyone noticing his condition. He opens up about his inability to function normally, admitting that he has spent over $10,000 on therapy and treatments but still feels helpless.

The episode delves into the lives of Riana and Jake beyond their OCD. By exploring their daily struggles, the documentary aims to educate viewers on the complexities of living with the disorder. Both subjects have current treatments, with Riana in CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), and medications that help control her OCD. Meanwhile, Jake undergoes exposure therapy, a form of psychotherapy to help alleviate his condition, but he still has some ways to progress. We observe how these treatments are not cure-alls, and there are still parts of their lives that they can't escape the grasp of OCD.

"I Have OCD" also introduces viewers to the lives of medical professionals who treat clients with OCD. After experiencing autistic symptoms that kept him in his home for several years, Kevin, a therapist deals with OCD patients. Kevin is diagnosed with OCD himself, so he has a unique perspective when it comes to treating clients. In addition, we see Dr. John's perspective. Dr. John has over 20 years of experience treating patients with OCD. The medical professionals address the stigma that comes with the disorder and how they aim to normalize it in society.

In summary, "I Have OCD" succeeds in bringing forth a serious conversation on OCD, and how it affects its victims. With powerful interviews and candid insights into the lives of Riana, Jake, Kevin, and Dr. John, the episode casts more light on the struggles of OCD patients and shines a light on the way to handle it. The show also applauds those who have taken the courageous step of speaking out about their condition, hopefully opening up the conversation for more people who may be silently suffering.