OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform. The obsessions cause anxiety, and the compulsions temporarily relieve that anxiety — creating a cycle that can consume hours each day.

OCD is often misunderstood. Many people think it's about being tidy or organised, but the reality is far more distressing. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, doubts about having caused harm, intrusive taboo thoughts, and a need for symmetry or exactness. Compulsions may include excessive washing, checking, counting, or mental rituals.

The gold-standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific form of CBT. ERP involves gradually facing feared situations without performing compulsions, breaking the cycle of anxiety and ritual. Medication — particularly SSRIs — can also be highly effective, often in combination with ERP.