There are a number of terms in current common vernacular that I would classify as overused. "Stressed out" (deciding what to order for dinner has me so stressed out); "unpack" (hold on, let's unpack that a bit); and the aforementioned "OCD." I take exception to the fact that people may observe a behavior that is representative of being thorough or thoughtful, and mislabel that as OCD. For the record: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness that causes repeated unwanted thoughts or sensations (obsessions) or the urge to do something over and over again (compulsions). Some people can have both obsessions and compulsions. An obsessive thought might be that certain numbers or colors are “good” or “bad.” A compulsive habit might be to wash your hands seven times after touching something that could be dirty; you feel powerless to stop. OCD isn’t about habits like biting your nails. Nor is it people who like to wash dishes, fold laundry, or go to the grocery store (if you happen to know anyone like that) - they are just being helpful.
I offer these insights in defense of a practice that I conduct each morning when taking my pills. There are a few (seven), and they vary in both size and solubility. I have also developed a technique for taking pills (especially so many at once) that helps me easily get through the routine. I place each pill, in decreasing size order, into the well of my mouth - behind my bottom teeth and under my tongue. I do this to consolidate them for easy swallowing, to slow the process of their dissolving (the manufacturer's intended action), and to avoid tasting the bad ones (there are no taste buds in that area). They are now ready for the flush of OJ that will rush past that pile of pills, carry them easily down my throat, and complete the process without any issues, mishaps or tears.
Is preparing this process per the picture above OCD? - I say NOT! The implementation of a well-organized plan is neither an obsession nor a compulsion - it is just that . . . a well-organized plan. Admittedly, this works for me and may not work for everyone, and that's ok, too. Some are single-pill poppers. Others precariously place each medication on the back of their tongue (nearly inducing self-gagging) and then drink their drink of choice. While some daring folks just put them in their mouth and voila swalla. Regardless, none of these methods can be considered OCD - mine included. So if you happen to see me in the act, be not judge nor jury, but without prejudice please permit my pill popping plan.
