What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by recurring intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive rituals or acts (compulsions) aimed to ease the distress or anxiety created by the original thoughts.

It can be present in childhood but most commonly begins around puberty or early adulthood. Although it can be distressing and time-consuming, wrapped with shame OCD is treatable and manageable with the right support.

 

Recognising Obsessions and Compulsions

Obsessions are unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause anxiety, disgust, or unease. The thoughts are very often, not logical and the person with OCD knows that which in turn makes it harder to be open and discuss them without shame. Compulsions are the behaviour or rituals performed in order to quieten or soothe the anxiety created by the obsessions.

• Common obsessions

  • Fear of contamination by germs, dirt, viruses

  • Worries about causing harm (e.g., leaving doors unlocked, fires unattended)

  • Intrusive violent, sexual, or blasphemous images

  • Need for symmetry, exactness, or hoarding urges

• Common compulsions

  • Excessive hand washing or showering

  • Repeated checking of locks, appliances, or personal safety

  • Counting, tapping, or repeating words silently

  • Arranging and ordering objects in a precise way

     

People perform their compulsions to relieve the anxiety or distress that their obsession creates, but the cycle often reoccurs multiple times a day and can be exhausting and time consuming.

 

The Impact of OCD on Daily Life

Left untreated, OCD can be an exhausting and debilitating condition and can affect all parts of a person life, personal, social, and professional. A person may spend hours performing rituals, avoiding situations or objects that may trigger an obsessive thought, and experience intense shame or embarrassment which can lead to isolation, decreased productivity, and strained relationships.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of OCD is unknown, but research points to a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioural, and environmental factors:

• Genetics: Family studies indicate a higher risk if a close relative has OCD.

• Life Events: Stressful or traumatic experiences can trigger symptom or the onset of existing tendencies.

• Learned Behaviours: Rituals developed to cope with distress may become habits which become self reinforced over time.

 

 

Strategies for Managing OCD Day-to-Day

 

• Practice mindfulness to observe thoughts without acting on them.

• Keep a flexible schedule to reduce ritualistic compulsions.

• Engage in regular exercise to lower overall anxiety levels.

• Join peer-support groups or online communities for shared experiences.

• Be kind to yourself

 

OCD can feel overwhelming, and reaching out for help can be challenging, but please know you are not alone. I see lots of clients on a regular basis with OCD and there is light at the end of the tunnel. It’s just a matter of finding the way out of the tunnel. If you would like to talk to me and discuss OCD tendencies please do so with the knowledge that no OCD thought is silly or ridiculous, they are powerful and manipulative, but I

 

can help support you with strategies that will allow you to take control of your life once more. You are not alone!

 

Seeking help is a sign of strength, and effective strategies exist to help you reclaim your life.