Preparing for Passover: Can Cleaning Increase OCD?

Preparing for Passover often involves cleaning, but for many, especially those suffering from OCD, it is not just a routine task. The Passover season, with its high expectations for cleanliness, can exacerbate symptoms and become a burden for those dealing with OCD.

According to Dr. Miriam Pink-Levi, a psychiatrist at the Leumit Clinic, OCD can manifest at any age but is particularly common among women. In a conversation with ynet, Dr. Pink-Levi explained that anyone dealing with OCD might face intrusive thoughts about germs and contamination, leading them to feel compelled to engage in endless cycles of cleaning. She emphasizes that when these behaviors consume at least an hour a day or affect daily functioning, professional intervention is needed.

Dr. Lior Cohen, a clinical psychologist at Meuhedet, mentioned in the article that compulsive cleaning during Passover doesn't stem from a desire for order, but rather from intrusive thoughts about contamination. "I had a patient who moved homes due to a single spot of dirt that became a focal point of incessant intrusive thoughts for her," he explains, "She couldn't stay in her house without experiencing extreme anxiety."

The reality for people with OCD during Passover can be particularly challenging, as the pressure of holiday preparations and expectations for thorough cleaning may worsen symptoms. According to Dr. Cohen, some individuals deal with a situation similar to what they experienced during the COVID-19 period, where daily life revolved around cleaning and precautions, making them feel "more normal." On the other hand, for some, the pressure and expectations may not allow for peace of mind.

To avoid worsening symptoms during Passover, it is recommended to seek professional help if cleaning becomes compulsive. Dr. Pink-Levi suggests ways to reduce stress, such as spreading out cleaning tasks over time, to avoid family conflicts and maintain calm and happiness.

"Most of us seek a certain level of order and control over our environment; this is a natural need that aligns with the desire for organization, cleanliness, and investment in our personal space," Dr. Pink-Levi concluded. "For some people, a tidy living space provides a sense of calm and tranquility, while others feel comfortable in a certain amount of clutter and do not view it as a nuisance."