OCD and the Covid-19 Impact – The Latest Research

Compulsive hoarding is too slim a topic to attract much attention from scientific researchers at this time. However, the broader debate around OCD and the Covid-19 impact did obtain the interest of one Dr Debanjan Banerjee. He works with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bangalore, India.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD) are an interlinked series of conditions. Persons with them display uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts and / or behaviours. Compulsive hoarder house clearance was once part of this motley collection.

Dr Debanjan Banerjee’s report is thus of related interest, especially as we include a hoarder house clearance in our portfolio of probate-related services.

1. The Backdrop to OCD and the Covid-19 Impact

We have faced an evolving threat over the past 100 days. A new coronavirus strain, SARS-CoV-2 introduced a dangerous viral infection called Covid-19. The initial outbreak was in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Over 4 million cases are on record worldwide, and rapidly counting. The world is becoming divided space as nations control their borders.

There is, however general consensus regarding the value of social distancing, hand hygiene, and breathing precautions. Sanitizers, soaps and gloves are in exceptionally high demand. Everywhere we go we see posters telling us to wash hands frequently and thoroughly.

2. 7 Main Factors Linking OCD and the Covid-19 Impact

Emphasis on frequent, long duration hand washing

The recommended ritualistic steps for achieving this

The possibility of infection from contaminated hands

The imperative for hygiene standards among families

Information overload about virus-contaminated surfaces

The convenient ‘excuse’ provided by the epidemic

Protective equipment shortages triggering panic hoarding