OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is a chronic disease in which the affected individual suffers from uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts and behaviors. For some, it may not be that serious, but for others, it can be debilitating. Repeatedly taking showers and/or washing hands may be a symptom of some non-serious OCD. However, among the people that suffer serious OCD, there are also famous people you may well know.
OCD in the past is a lot more difficult for the people suffering from it. They are considered crazy because people in the past lacked the knowledge and technology to identify what the disorder really is about.
Here is a list of famous people in the past who suffered from serious OCD.
Nikola Tesla
Nikola Tesla is known for his inventions like wireless communication, the radio, remote control, alternating current. His inventions are very important to the present generation. Despite how brilliant he was, Nikola Tesla had some habits that make him a candidate for serious OCD. Prior eating, Tesla made sure he had 18 napkins on hand. He counted the number of times he chewed and was obsessed with the number 3. He also had a fear of round objects like earrings, bracelets, and pearls. Finally, he refused to give the handshake and he despised the idea of touching other's body hairs.
Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson
Thomas Jackson was named as one of the best and capable generals in the American Civil War era. Jackson had success in many of his battles and was known as a brilliant military commander. With his good reputation as an outstanding member of the army, Jackson was known for his very odd behaviors. The general suffered a serious OCD, struggling with bizarre obsessions, eccentric behavior, and hypochondria.
He used to raise his arm habitually to improve balance because he believed his other arm was longer.
Howard Hughes
Howard Hughes is a known aviator, business person, and a filmmaker. He had a plane accident in 1946 that triggered his OCD. Hughes secluded himself in a room for four months with only chicken, milk, and chocolates to eat.
Also, instead of using a bathroom, he used containers to relieve himself. Hughes also ordered his assistants not to speak to him unless he spoke to them first. He died in 1976 after the long seclusion and was clearly ruled by his OCD and other mental illness. At the time of his death, he only weighed 99 pounds at the time of his death: it is believed that one of the causes for him to pass away was starvation.
