KABUL (SW) – Several psychologists in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, believe that anxiety, an unstable family environment, low self-esteem, and, in some cases, fear, contribute to the development of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in women.
Obsessive Compulsive disorder is a type of mental health disorder that disrupts behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. Psychologists further say that the most common form of OCD is excessive cleaning (washing), particularly among women.
Mohammadullah Baloch, a Kabul-based psychologist, explains: “Family dynamics, an obsessive family environment, and low self-esteem, especially in young women, contribute to the onset of obsessive compulsive disorder. A person repeatedly engages in certain behaviors throughout the day—washing their hands excessively, opening and closing doors repeatedly, or constantly touching their face.”
Psychologists also believe that OCD is a treatable disorder that can be managed through medication and psychotherapy.
Hasina Mohammadi, another psychologist, says: “Both medication and psychotherapy can be helpful. Individuals should consult a psychologist and gradually work on gaining control over their behaviors with professional guidance.”
Maryam, a 29-year-old resident of Kabul, shares that her OCD around cleaning food and clothing began at her 16. She believes her sensitive and fragile mindset during her teenage years led her to experience severe OCD in adulthood.
“My obsession with cleanliness at home is the most prominent. For example, when I wash food items, I have to do it repeatedly. If I wash clothes, I need to rinse them several times,” she said.
Another Kabul resident, 23-year-old Tayeba, has an intense obsession with cleaning and maintaining the cleanliness of her home. She explains that thinking about past unpleasant events has caused her to develop a severe cleaning obsession. She often cleans the same area multiple times, which has become distressing for her and her family.
“I feel everything must be spotless. I often clean the kitchen multiple times, thinking it needs more cleaning. Sometimes, I feel exhausted, as I think others don’t notice the cleanliness, and my family gets upset,” Tayeba said.
OCD among women has also led to difficulties in social interactions. Some women report that due to their obsessive behaviors, they struggle to communicate with others and feel ashamed to be in social environments.
Zohal, a 34-year-old Kabul resident, expressed: “Even my relationships with my family have been affected; my social interactions have taken a significant hit. I’m even afraid of connecting with others, thinking I’m not normal, that I’m obsessive, and might hurt someone. That’s why I’ve become reclusive. It’s just me and this room.”
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder more commonly observed in women, with the most frequent form being excessive cleaning. Many women, due to a lack of awareness, do not take this disorder seriously and fail to seek treatment.
