What is Olfactory Reference Syndrome? Signs to watch out for

From seeking reassurance to having delusional beliefs, here are a few signs of Olfactory Reference Syndrome we should be aware of.

Published on: Oct 29, 2023 2:52 PM IST

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Published on Oct 29, 2023 2:52 PM

Olfactory Reference Syndrome is a mental disorder where a person consistently believes that they are emitting a bad odour. This can also lead to distress and anxiety. "This syndrome involves an obsessive preoccupation with the imagined smell, often resulting in significant impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning," wrote Therapist Maythal Eshaghian. Here are a few signs of Olfactory Reference Syndrome. (Unsplash)

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People with Olfactory Reference Syndrome keep avoiding social situations thinking that they will make people around them uncomfortable with bad odour.  (Unsplash)

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They also constantly keep checking their body odour or smell to detect anything abnormal.  (Unsplash)

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They also sometimes have delusional beliefs about their body odour, making themselves believe that they are exhibiting bad odour.  (Unsplash)

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They constantly keep seeking reassurance from people around them to know if they are emitting any kind of bad body odour.  (Unsplash)

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People with Olfactory Reference Syndrome also exhibit signs of depression, anxiety and isolation. (Unsplash)