By Sam Knew, MSW

If you’ve glanced at your television set recently, you’ve probably noticed the networks’ obsession with other people’s obsessions. From over-eaters to hoarding to counting steps – we have witnessed people obsessed with it all – including sex. Don’t worry, this isn’t going to be one of those Tiger Woods pieces. This is a different type of sexual obsession – the fear of contracting STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).  It’s probably fair to say that most of us spend the better part of lives avoiding diseases in general, but these individuals live in a perpetual state of fear, isolation and usually in silence of their obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD).

In some cases, these individuals have worried themselves sick about getting sick. This obsession of contracting an STD, such as HIV, can be classified under the “chicken or egg” syndrome. In a society of bill boards, TV campaigns and marches across most any major street pleading us to get tested and be protected – it’s no wonder so many suffer from this form of OCD, scaring ourselves sexless.

On the surface this may seem like a good thing. People holding out on sexual encounters, afraid of contracting an STD. But some mental health professionals point out this paralyzing and compulsive behavior can lead to more serious problems. Individuals suffering from the “fear of contamination” have an irrational fear of being contaminated by germs, dirt, pathogens, or anything unsanitary. This fear often causes the people to take on compulsive behaviors. Behaviors such as hand washing, taking multiple showers a day, washing and rewashing clothing and other repetitive ritual actions.
The emotional and physical toll of this type of paranoia can set off a chain reaction of issues. These can include stress related illnesses, such as loss of appetite, ulcers, depression and sleep depravation. In addition, this fear makes it extremely challenging to pursue mature, healthy relationships – even with one’s own family and friends, much less romantically. The obsession can even take on a life of it’s own, for example some individuals compelled to be tested compulsively for STDs, even daily, disbelieving negative results.

Oddly enough, individuals who are HIV+ (or have another type of weakened immune system disorder) may develop a similar form of OCD. These individuals may develop social phobias (a fear of being criticized by others). Their fears may also lead to anxiety disorders, with symptoms including: discomfort or pain in the chest, dizziness, nausea, cold or hot flashes, difficulty breathing and physical tremors. These phobias can lead to individuals becoming so paralyzed and ashamed of their condition they may avoid seeking treatment, and develop dangerous coping skills. For example, a study identified HIV+ gay and bi-sexual men, who also suffer from forms of OCD, at an increased risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD), specifically with methamphetamine (meth).  Meth is also known to develop impotence in users.

Treatment of these disorders can come in many forms, depending on the multiple sub-disorders one develops. In some cases, several forms of behavioral therapy, including exposure therapy – where clients are asked to confront their fears are used. In extreme cases, psychosurgery may be considered. Less invasive treatments include the use of medication (usually in conjunction with therapy). Sufferers could also benefit from support groups and relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation – and maybe a little less TV.

Sam Knew, MSW is an educator and a local counselor. He can be reached at samknewmsw@gmail.com or
www.facebook.com/samknew