In a candid conversation, Justin Mackenzie shares his journey with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced from his early teens through high school and beyond. Diagnosed around seventh or eighth grade, Justin reflects on how debilitating OCD impacted his daily life, academics, and relationships, often manifesting as intrusive thoughts that consumed his mind. He emphasizes the common misconception surrounding OCD, distinguishing his experiences from the more benign behaviors often associated with the disorder.
Justin highlights the importance of understanding that OCD is not who he is but rather a condition he navigates. Ultimately, his story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that recovery is possible and that support is essential in overcoming the hurdles of mental illness.