OCD Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Ever feel like you have to wash your hands again and again, even though they’re clean? Or maybe recurring thoughts or images pop into your head, causing you distress and prompting you to do certain things to make them go away. This could be OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder).

What is OCD?

OCD is a mental health condition characterized by:

• Obsessions: Unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that feel difficult to control.
• Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety caused by the obsessions.

Examples of OCD:

• Obsession: Fear of germs and contamination.
• Compulsion: Frequent handwashing.
• Obsession: Intrusive thoughts of harming yourself or others.
• Compulsion: Counting objects repeatedly to ward off the thoughts.

It’s important to remember:

• Not everyone who enjoys order or has routines has OCD.
• OCD can be very challenging and disruptive to daily life for those who experience it.

How can you seek help?

If you suspect you or someone you know might have OCD, seeking professional help from a therapist is crucial. They can provide tools and strategies to manage OCD symptoms, such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying unhelpful thought patterns and developing coping mechanisms.
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Gradually confronting feared situations without engaging in compulsive behaviors.

Remember:

OCD is treatable, and with the right support, many people find relief and learn to manage their symptoms effectively, leading to a more fulfilling life.