OCD Awareness Week 13th-19th October.

What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?  

OCD is a mental health condition where you have recurring thoughts and repetitive behaviours you cannot control.

Symptoms

You may have obsessions, or compulsions, or both, varying in severity. 

Examples of obsessions may include:

• Fear of dirt/contamination

• Worry that doors are unlocked or stoves not turned off 

• Fear that you could be the perpetrator of violence or sexual harm

Compulsive behaviours may include:

• Excessive washing or cleaning of hands or living space

• Checking doors are locked or gas turned off multiple times

• Searching for proof that you haven’t committed an act of violence - scrutinising electronic messages or even checking hedgerows to make sure you haven’t concealed a dead body 

Causes 

Symptoms often start in young adulthood but may begin in childhood. Environment and genetics could both play a part, as OCD frequently runs in families.  

Symptoms can be triggered by ongoing life stress, or by psychological or other trauma, where the world becomes a frightening place. OCD inhibits functioning and relationships and is unlikely to resolve on its own.  

Treatment

Anyone experiencing OCD symptoms should seek professional help. We have trained staff here at Peel to support anyone experiencing ODC symptoms.

Anti-anxiety medication may alleviate symptoms. Counselling or psychotherapy will provide strategies to gradually reduce compulsions and to challenge negative thoughts about self. The resolution of underlying stress or trauma should lead to improved emotional regulation, self-acceptance and self-compassion.

OCD symptoms may not feel normal, but they are far more usual than you might expect.