There are two main elements to OCD, obsessional thoughts and compulsive acts. The obsession centres on a repetitive and unwanted thought which is difficult to ignore. A common obsession is the fear of catching an illness through contamination.
Relief from the obsession is often found by acting out a compulsion. So for example, someone who has an obsession about catching an illness may seek to lessen their anxiety by repeatedly washing their hands.
Some people may have compulsions which are not triggered by obsessional thoughts. At the same some people also have obsessional thoughts without it leading to an outwardly physical act of compulsion. This latter form of OCD is often referred to as ‘Pure O’.
Symptoms of OCD
• Persistent or distressing thoughts
• Fear of being harmed
• Fear of harming others
• A need for symmetry
• Fear of a natural disaster occurring
• Fear of leaving the house unlocked
• Repeating words or phrases
• Checking doors are locked and lights switched off
• Ritualistic behaviour such as counting, repeating words or phrases and arranging items into a particular order or direction.
Coping Mechanisms
- The most common and effective treatment is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
- Sometimes medications are also prescribed to give additional support, the most commonly used medications for people with OCD are SSRI medications (Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitor Medications).
- An alternative to SSRIs is Clomipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
Useful Websites
- Mind Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. They work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.
- OCD Action OCD Action is the largest national charity that provides help and advice on Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
- OCD UK OCD-UK is a leading, service user led, national charity, independently working with and for people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
- Rethink Founded over 30 years ago to give a voice to people affected by severe mental illness and today, with over 8,300 members, remain determined that this voice will continue to be heard.
- Samaritans Samaritans provides confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide.