OCD in the 1800's?

Question

When people in the 1800's got OCD, how much did they know about it? Did they have meds for it? (and if so, what types of medicine?) Was OCD common in the 1800's? How many people had it? Most importantly~ how much did they know about it???

Answer 1

The formal diagnosis of OCD has only been around since the mid 20th century, but this is not to say that it did not exist prior. There is evidence for literary works that does suggest that OCD been a part of the human condition for a long time, perhaps prior to the old testament. However, the context of how it was considered was very different and changed as cultural values changed, and at times may have been seen as more acceptable then it is now. For example, obsessions and compulsions with religious overtones are very common. In a more structured society this type of behavior would not been as overtly seen as dysfunctional and in fact may have been rewarded. It is unlikely any one thought of it as a disorder needing medication until more recently.

Answer 2

I don't think anyone's alive to answer that one, but I would suspect they did. Those kind of illnesses I believe have always been around, just like the bipolar & anxiety disorder I have. People just didn't call the mental illnesses what we do now!