HOCD (or H-OCD or Homo-OCD) is an unofficial term and is considered by its sufferers and some clinicians as a subset of OCD. HOCD stands for homosexual obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is defined as the extreme fear of homosexuality and an obsession with one's own sexuality.
Most people who suffer from HOCD have an extreme, morbid fear of homosexuality. This often is based on their own fear or anxiety of being homosexual fueled by an inner belief (true or not) that they could be gay. This internal confusion is the basis for HOCD and is usually the focus of treatment. HOCD can be accompanied by other OCD symptoms such as compulsive hair pulling, eating disorders, etc.
Treatments for HOCD
Treatment can include medication - the medications commonly prescribed for those suffering from OCD can help HOCD as well. These medications are not a cure, but can help overcome the more crippling aspects of the disorder.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has often helped those who suffer from HOCD. The basis is to find the core issues causing the anxiety and fear and dealing with those to reduce or eliminate their obsessive manifestations. Hypnosis is often used as part of C-b.
Much of the therapy to deal with HOCD is to confront the homosexual fears head-on by analyzing and exposing the underlying thoughts that are causing the HOCD to manifest. Often, these thoughts, when aired out vocally or in writing, will be seen as ridiculous and extreme and allow the patient to see them for what they are and even laugh them off. Internally, the thoughts can be powerful, but once aired out and seen in the light, they can become the funny underwear hanging on the line.
Whatever the patient does, he or she needs help to do it and should seek that help quickly.
