Reality TV star Scheana Shay received the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) Illumination Award on Saturday, July 27. She was recognized for her efforts to raise awareness about postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The IOCDF Illumination Award is given to media personalities who have portrayed OCD in a respectful, accurate, and appropriate manner, or who have worked to challenge stereotypes and fight stigma around mental health issues.
Shay is known for her role on the Bravo TV show Vanderpump Rules. She welcomed her daughter, Summer Moon, with partner Brock Davies in April 2021 and has been vocal about issues related to fertility and motherhood. Shay experienced postpartum OCD after her daughter’s birth and openly discussed her journey seeking therapy and medication in the most recent season of Vanderpump Rules. She is dedicated to using her platform to assist other mothers in accessing the treatment and resources they need.
“Scheana’s courage to speak to the world about her struggles will help erase the stigma surrounding OCD, and will reach millions of people who may find hope and healing through support,” said Rebecca Deusser, executive director of the IOCDF. “Because of Scheana’s advocacy, many people now know they are no longer alone.”
“I’m beyond honored to receive this recognition from the IOCDF and grateful for the work they are doing to spread awareness and provide resources for others in my situation,” Shay said. “Too often, we suffer in silence with only our worst fears for company, but getting a diagnosis and the proper treatment has made me feel hopeful again. I am committed to continue sharing my story and bringing this mental health issue out in the light where it belongs. Awareness is the first step towards healing.”
Shay received the Illumination Award at the IOCDF’s 29th Annual OCD Conference in Orlando. She was accompanied by her husband and 2,300 members of the OCD community. Perinatal OCD is a type of OCD that occurs during pregnancy or the postpartum period. It is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts related to the unborn or newborn baby and compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety. Common obsessions include heightened fears of harming the baby or concerns about their health, while compulsions may involve excessive checking on the baby, cleaning of the baby’s environment, or seeking reassurance from others about the baby’s well-being. It is important to recognize and treat perinatal OCD through the use of mental health therapy, medication, support groups, or other resources to ensure the well-being of both the parent and the child.
