What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
More than just worrying or liking things neat, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and severe Anxiety Disorders are debilitating conditions that can dramatically impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and sense of self.
Public misconception can be a huge barrier to seeking the effective, evidence-based treatment that helps millions of people manage their symptoms.
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition defined by a cycle of obsessions (unwanted, intrusive thoughts that cause extreme anxiety) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours performed to relieve that anxiety).
Signs you might be struggling with OCD
Persistent, intrusive thoughts or images that pop into your head, even when you try to fight them.
Having to perform certain actions (mental or physical) in a very specific way or number of times.
Compulsions that take up more than an hour a day and interfere with school, work, or social life.
Feeling extreme anxiety, guilt, or fear if you are prevented from completing a ritual.
Actively avoiding places, people, or situations that might trigger an obsession.
Constantly asking others to confirm that everything is okay.
The OCD cycle
The cycle of OCD begins when an obsession (an intrusive thought) triggers intense anxiety, which is temporarily relieved by a compulsion (a repetitive behaviour), ultimately strengthening the obsession and perpetuating the loop.
When to seek support
If anxiety and/or OCD symptoms are negatively impacting your life, it is time to seek support. A professional specialising in these disorders can provide evidence-based, effective treatment.
Cause significant distress or impairment at work, school, or home.
Lead to isolation or affect your relationships.
You feel unable to stop the thoughts or behaviours on your own.
Your life is shrinking due to avoidance.
You don't have to navigate overwhelming thoughts and feelings alone. There is hope, and there is effective treatment, like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
If you or a loved one is struggling, please reach out to one of our clinicians for a consultation.