OCD and the Halacha

Published March 11, 2010

Compulsive behavior can express itself in many areas. In our explanation of OCD we presented the example of people with an obsession for checking whether a door is locked. Similarly, but much more relevant to this column, are people who express this type of behavior in relation to their observance of halacha.
For example, some people can be obsessive with regard to Shabbat observance and obsess that a particular action is forbidden. Others can be overly concerned with cleaning for Pesach, obsessing about the possible presence of chametz everywhere in their house, even in places that they have already cleaned. Other examples are obsessions about maintaining kavana - the right intention in the area of prayer, or the observance of kashrut or a myriad of other areas of observance.

In Masechet P’sachim (1:2) the Mishna discusses obsessions with regards to cleaning one’s house for Pesach. Specifically, the Mishna raises the question of someone who has cleaned a room but then is worried that unbeknownst to him, an animal may have brought chametz into the room after it had been cleaned. The Mishna states that such a concern has no limits (there are an unlimited number of scenarios in which chametz could potentially have gotten into a previously cleaned room without our knowledge) and concludes that we do not have to be worried about such potentials. It clearly makes a point that our obligation to follow the halacha includes normal behavior and nothing more.

In Machon Puah, OCD is often seen as an issue in the area of observing the laws of family purity. In their legitimate zeal to maintain strict adherence to the halachot, we find that some women can become obsessive and stricter in the application of the halacha than they need to be. Often, this can delay mikveh immersion and result in problems with getting pregnant; it can also create tension between husband and wife.

So what is the solution?

In a fascinating presentation at the recent 10th Annual Puah Conference held in Jerusalem, Prof. Yosef Zohar, a world-renowned psychiatrist quoted the Steipler Rav in dealing with a similar problem. A Yeshiva bochur was concerned about certain heretical thoughts he was having, thoughts which were interfering with his studies and everyday life. The Steipler suggested that he not deal directly with these thoughts. Rather, he should focus on learning more Torah and reading specific passages from the Torah instead of focusing on those thoughts.

Prof. Zohar explained that this apparently simple solution actually shows a deep understanding of the psychology of such cases of OCD. Rather than allow the boy to continue to sink into his thoughts and be obsessed with them, the Steipler provided him with an alternative focus. By changing the focus from negative thoughts to positive actions, the boy eventually lifted himself from depression and emerged from his obsession. Prof. Zohar added that is actually a classic example of the psychological approach to dealing with OCD.

Obviously, this is only one example and it is not within the scope of this column to discuss the many ways that obsessive behavior can affect fertility and the many forms of treatment for OCD. Yet, Dr. Zohar made it clear that the vast majority of these cases can be dealt with in a therapeutic manner. Each case must be professionally reviewed to identify the appropriate treatment.

Furthermore, as was seen in the example we cited, it is often productive for doctors and other therapists to involve outside authorities in identifying a treatment regimen. There is no question that the Stiepler Rav’s being the source of the advice added credence to the advice in the eyes of the student. Similarly, the counsel of a Puah or personal Rabbi, recognized by the couple as being an expert in the halachot of nidda and reproduction, will often be the catalyst that allows a woman to follow halacha appropriately and not overly stringently.

Dr. Zohar closed his remarks by noting that the Rambam has written that we are not to be overly stringent in the laws of nidda. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all of us, but certainly upon our Rabbis to make sure that people follow the halacha appropriately and not overzealously.