Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that impacts people from all walks of life. While many experience occasional intrusive thoughts or might double-check things, OCD involves persistent, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels compelled to perform to relieve anxiety.

Obsessions are recurring, intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that cause significant anxiety.

These thoughts and their impacts on people with OCD can be difficult to understand from the outside. For someone struggling with OCD, they are often very intense and compelling, leading them to respond with compulsive actions.

Common obsessions include:

Compulsions are actions performed to alleviate the anxiety caused by obsessions. They may temporarily reduce distress but reinforce OCD cycles over time.

OCD goes beyond being organised or worrying occasionally; it involves time-consuming behaviours that interfere significantly with daily life.

Examples include:

OCD is complex and not entirely understood. Key factors that may contribute include:

·         Genetic predisposition

·         Brain chemistry

·         Environmental triggers and life stressors

·         Learned behaviours and coping mechanisms

·         Trauma or major life changes

While we may not fully understand why some people develop OCD, research shows that several practical  skills can significantly help individuals reduce symptoms and improve well-being.

OCD can affect every aspect of life, making even simple tasks challenging. Symptoms of OCD generally fall into three categories:

If you’re experiencing symptoms, a mental health professional can offer guidance. OCD is a recognised  condition, and ongoing support is essential for effective management.

OCD is treatable, but getting the right treatment is important. Effective therapies, especially Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), have been shown to reduce symptoms significantly.