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Feeling heard: Songs That Speak to OCD or Covert/Pure O

Living with OCD—especially the often-misunderstood Pure O, where intrusive thoughts and mental rituals predominate—can feel incredibly isolating and overwhelming. Many people struggle silently, caught in cycles of rumination, doubt, and emotional distress that others may not see or understand.

As a qualified therapist, I've found that music can sometimes give voice to these experiences in powerful and validating ways. Songs written from personal encounters with OCD often capture the emotional landscape in a way that words alone cannot. They offer connection, comfort, and sometimes even hope.

Music and poems about OCD, Pure O, Covert O
Music and poems about OCD, Pure O, Covert O

In this article, I want to share a selection of songs and poems that speak to OCD and Pure O. Alongside each, I’ve included links so you can listen or watch, as well as some ideas for reflection—whether you’re living with OCD yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand better.

As you explore these songs and poems, please approach them with self-compassion and awareness. For some individuals with OCD, especially those navigating intense intrusive thoughts, certain themes or lyrics within these pieces might feel particularly raw or emotionally intense. This can sometimes be a powerful part of feeling seen and understood, but it's also perfectly okay if you need to pause, take a break, or come back to them another time. Listen at your own pace, and remember that your well-being is always the priority.

Songs That Speak to OCD and Pure O

  • OCD Rap - Nathan Dufour A song that contains a lot of great information about the process of OCD, and how Nathan used philosophy to help him deal with OCD.  Listen here

  • I Went Hunting — George Ezra George Ezra’s reflection on living with Pure O offers a glimpse into his mental battles. Listen here

  • Everything Is Alright — Motion City Soundtrack This song comes from the lead singer’s own experience with OCD. It touches on the constant need for reassurance and the mental push-pull. Listen here

  • Pure O — Sam Jessep A heartfelt piece that shines a light on Pure O, where distressing thoughts stay largely inside but cause immense turmoil. Listen here

  • OCD — The Drives This track shows the journey of growing up with undiagnosed OCD and the turning point of realising that the fear of sharing is isolating and seeking help might be necessary. Listen here

  • Sad Forever — Lauv Sad Forever was written by Lauv when he was extremely low, dealing with depression and OCD, but hadn't yet recognised or got the help needed. Listen here

  • Pure O - Cinnamon Babe Stormi Maya, who shared that she’s experienced Pure O since she was six, wrote the song during an actual episode. Listen here

  • Rumination As Ritual (EP) — Alessi Rose A collection of music focused on the repetitive and exhausting thought patterns common in OCD and related conditions. Listen here

  • Serotonin — girl in red This song directly addresses the feeling of chemical imbalance, intrusive thoughts (including distressing ones), and the struggle with mental health in a raw, honest way. Listen here

  • Car Radio — Twenty One Pilots This song captures the overwhelming nature of one's thoughts and speaks to the way some try to avoid intrusive thoughts. Listen here

Poems & Spoken Word That Speak to OCD

  • OCD (Poem) — Neil Hilborn A powerful spoken-word performance that vividly captures the intensity and complexity of living with OCD, particularly its impact on relationships and daily life. Watch here

  • "What If" — Marika (via OCD-UK) This moving poem, written by a young ambassador for OCD-UK, powerfully describes the relentless "what if" cycle of doubt and rumination that is central to the OCD experience. Read here

Reflecting on Music and Your Experience

Listening to these songs and poems can be more than just a passive experience. You might find it helpful to reflect on some of these questions:

  • Which song or poem resonates most with you, and why?

  • What emotions came up as you listened or read?

  • Are there particular lyrics, phrases, or moments that mirror your own experiences with OCD?

  • Did you feel seen or less alone in your struggles? How so?

  • Were there messages of hope, humour, or validation that stood out?

  • Would you like to explore any feelings or thoughts from these songs or poems further in therapy or personal reflection?

Share Your Resources

If you know of other songs, poems, videos, or creative works that have helped you or others in relation to OCD, please do leave a comment or get in touch! You can email me using this link or go to the contact page.

Final Thoughts

OCD, especially Pure O, often feels invisible and misunderstood. Music and poetry can bridge that gap—offering a language for the unspeakable, a mirror for the hidden pain, and sometimes, a light to guide us through the fog. If you find these resources helpful or if you'd like to talk more about your experiences with OCD, please feel free to reach out. You don't have to face it alone.


Disclaimer: As a qualified therapist, I offer this blog post for general informational purposes and as a resource for understanding OCD. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling with OCD or any mental health concerns, please reach out to a qualified therapist, like me, or another healthcare provider.



 
 
 

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