OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) affects people differently, but usually causes a particular pattern of thoughts and behaviours.
This pattern has four main steps:
It's possible to just have obsessive thoughts or just have compulsions, but most people with OCDwill experience both.
Almost everyone has unpleasant or unwanted thoughts at some point, such as thinking they may have forgotten to lock the door of the house, or even sudden unwelcome violent or offensive mental images.
But if you have a persistent, unpleasant thought that dominates your thinking to the extent it interrupts other thoughts, you may have an obsession.
Some common obsessions that affect people with OCD include:
You mayhave obsessive thoughts of a violent or sexual nature that you find repulsive or frightening.But they're just thoughts and having them doesn't mean you'll act on them.
Compulsions arise as a way of trying to reduce or prevent anxiety caused by the obsessive thought,although in realitythis behaviour is either excessive or not realistically connected.
For example, a person who fears contamination with germs may wash their handsrepeatedly, or someone with a fear ofharming their family may have the urge to repeat an action multiple times to "neutralise" the thought.
Most people with OCD realise that such compulsive behaviour is irrational and makes no logical sense, but they can't stop acting on it and feel they need to do it "just in case".
Common types of compulsive behaviour in people with OCD include:
Not all compulsive behaviours will be obvious to other people.
It's important to get help if you think you have OCD and it's having a significant impact on your life.
If you think a friend or family member may have OCD, try talking to them about your concerns and suggest they seek help.
OCD is unlikely to get better on its own, but treatment and support is available to help youmanage yoursymptoms and have a better quality of life.
There are two main ways to get help:
Contact your GP or care team immediately if you ever feel you can't go on. You can also phone the Samaritans on 116 123, or you can call one of these helplines or support groups or NHS 111.
Find out about the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), where to get help, and what the main treatments are for it.
Find out about the main symptoms of OCD, including some common examples of how the condition can affect you.
Find out about the main treatments for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), including therapy and medication.
Diana Wilson had obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) for more than 25 years. Now working for OCD-UK, here she shares her story about how she finally overcame the disorder.