When someone is obsessed with cleanliness and orderliness, especially of their surroundings and environment, it may be a symptom of a mental health condition known as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
OCD is a chronic and often debilitating mental disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Obsessions are intrusive and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter a person's mind. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that individuals feel driven to perform to alleviate the anxiety caused by their obsessions. In the case of cleanliness and orderliness, the obsessions may revolve around fears of contamination or a constant need for symmetry and perfection.
People with OCD may engage in excessive cleaning, washing, arranging, or organizing rituals as a way to manage their anxiety related to their obsessions. For example, they might excessively wash their hands, clean their living spaces repeatedly, or arrange objects in precise patterns to feel a sense of control and reduce their distress.
It's essential to note that OCD can vary in severity, and not everyone who likes cleanliness or orderliness necessarily has OCD. For a diagnosis of OCD, these symptoms must significantly interfere with a person's daily life and cause distress. If someone suspects that they or someone they know may have OCD, it's crucial to seek help from a qualified mental health professional for proper evaluation and treatment. OCD can be effectively managed with therapy (often cognitive-behavioral therapy) and, in some cases, medication.