"As Good As It Gets" and discusses his OCD(Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) problem.

Psychology Extra Credit "As Good As It Gets" (A Breakdown Of OCD) Melvin Udall is a successful novelist who suffers from a moderate level of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He steps around cracks. He repeatedly checks door locks and light switches. He wears gloves and tries not to touch people. He washes his hands frequently and will never use the same bar of soap twice. When he eats out he has to have his own …

…a glimpse of OCD. In reality, however, OCD can easily be more disabling, tormenting and painful than portrayed in the film. Melvin is fortunate to only have a moderate case of OCD, and he is extremely fortunate that he is able to pursue a successful career from home. Many people with anxiety disorders are not this lucky. Many quietly struggle to recover from, or hide, their condition while coping with greater social and economic pressures.