Hollywood's Missteps: How OCD is Misunderstood in Film

Hollywood often strays from the truth when it comes to depicting mental health, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In popular culture, OCD is often reduced to quirky habits and comical stereotypes, but for those living with it, it’s far from humorous. In an illuminating episode of the Inside Mental Health podcast, actor Rachel Alig and filmmaker Sam Sabawi dive into how their acclaimed short film “For All I Know” seeks to offer an authentic portrayal of OCD — and why that matters deeply.

Behind the Scenes of “For All I Know”

What sets “For All I Know” apart from more traditional portrayals of OCD is its commitment to authenticity. Directed by Sam Sabawi, who lives with OCD himself, the film is a personal narrative that mirrors the real-life struggles associated with OCD. As stated in Psych Central, Sabawi passionately conveys the internal battles that often go unseen by the public eye—and Hollywood.

Shattering Stereotypes

Rachel Alig, who stars in the film, sheds light on her journey to embody a character experiencing OCD without falling into clichés. Through deep understanding and empathy, Alig was able to portray a character struggling with intrusive thoughts—decoupling the illness from the cleaning-obsessed stereotypes that often pervade film and television. The film challenges these misconceptions and educated viewers on the true nature of the mental disorder.

The Power of Thoughtful Representation

The episode emphasizes that incorrect representations of OCD in media can be harmful. Sabawi recounts how mainstream entertainment has trivialized OCD, often using it as a punchline. The true reality, he argues, is much more complex and painful. According to Psych Central, the film aims to highlight the struggles of those living with these constant battles of the mind—and hopes to influence viewers’ perceptions for the better.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): A Key Therapy

By incorporating real therapy techniques like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the film “For All I Know” demonstrates the raw and ongoing reality of recovery from OCD. ERP, the gold standard for treating OCD, is rarely showcased in entertainment, making its presence in this film groundbreaking. It gives viewers a glimpse into the therapeutic processes that help individuals manage their symptoms.

Towards an Authentic Storytelling Future

The episode closes with a call to action: a plea for filmmakers and writers to portray OCD and mental health authentically. Accurate portrayals can foster empathy and understanding, reshaping public perception. For Rachel and Sam, true success will be when audiences recognize OCD as more than just a quirk—but a real and challenging illness that deserves compassion and attention.

The short film “For All I Know” is currently available on YouTube, offering a chance for viewers to reassess what they think they know about OCD. This thoughtful film reminds us: true understanding begins with a commitment to genuine storytelling.