Most people with OCD go for years, decades even, before seeking help or even being diagnosed. One of the main reasons for that is the fear of being stigmatized. We are very aware that our thoughts and behaviors are different, unusual or even bizarre. And they can certainly be embarrassing. So we learn to hide them and we can get very good at that. To our detriment.

winnipegsun.com - Manitoba - Attached stigma is worse than the disorder itself

It’s unfortunate that OCD sufferers are often stereotyped as being delusional, cat-collecting and unproductive, or seen as humorously crazy.

This article talks about that stigma.