Dr. Alex George Shares Life-Changing OCD Diagnosis After Long Battle

Dr. Alex George, a prominent figure from the reality series *Love Island*, has publicly shared his recent diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) following a challenging six-year journey with mental health issues. The 34-year-old, who gained fame on the show in 2018, revealed the news to his 2 million social media followers, emphasizing the significant impact this diagnosis has had on his life.

In an emotional video posted online, Dr. George recounted a meeting with his psychiatrist, which took place earlier in March 2024. He explained that he was first diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) three years ago, a pivotal moment that led him to seek help. At that time, he began addressing his struggles with alcohol and sought medication and trauma therapy.

Dr. George described the difficult period he faced in December, stating, “I had a real plummet and ended up in a very, very dark place.” Since then, he has been on medication and reported experiencing a significant improvement in his mental health, generally rating himself as a six or seven out of ten on the wellness scale.

Understanding the Diagnosis

During his recent appointment, Dr. George engaged in an open discussion with his psychiatrist about his mental health challenges. He noted that she pointed out a connection between his distress and OCD, a condition he had suspected for some time. “She said a lot of things causing you distress now are related and caused by OCD,” he revealed. This diagnosis resonated deeply with him, as he acknowledged the “obsessive doubt and obsessive rumination” that had plagued his thoughts.

OCD is a severe anxiety disorder that affects approximately 12 in every 1,000 people, according to data from the charity OCD-UK. It involves persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform in an attempt to alleviate anxiety. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks OCD among the top ten most disabling illnesses globally, highlighting its profound impact on quality of life and economic productivity.

Dr. George indicated that he is now focused on understanding the next steps in his treatment. He plans to explore various therapeutic options, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), to manage his symptoms effectively.

Community Support and Personal Reflections

Following his announcement, Dr. George received an outpouring of support from fans and friends alike. Many expressed their admiration for his openness about mental health struggles. One supporter commented, “You are so real, kind and genuine! The world needs more Alex’s.” Another shared their own experiences with OCD, highlighting the importance of understanding and support in such challenging situations.

In his post, Dr. George reflected on his emotional journey, stating, “OCD has probably caused me more distress than anything else. But, I already feel better having clarity, and I can now begin to work on it to get better.” He also mentioned that his psychiatrist suspects he may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), although this has yet to be formally diagnosed.

“I’m grateful I’m in a much better place than I was at Christmas,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of gradual progress. Dr. George aims to continue discussing his experiences, encouraging awareness and understanding of mental health issues. He concluded his message with heartfelt gratitude for the support he has received, reinforcing the notion that no one is alone in their struggles.

Dr. George’s willingness to share his experiences serves as an inspiration for many facing similar challenges. His journey underscores the importance of seeking help and the impact of community support in mental health recovery. For individuals who suspect they may have OCD or other mental health concerns, resources such as Mind.org.uk provide valuable information and guidance on seeking assistance.