OCD

OCD definition

OCD is an anxiety disorder characterised by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts and repetitive, ritualised behaviours you feel compelled to perform

obsessions

involuntary, seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, images or impulses occurring over and over again, can’t and often disturbing

compulsions

behaviours or rituals that you feel driven to act out again and again. Compulsions are performed in an attempt to make obsessions go away

Relief never lasts

Thoughts come back stronger

Behavioural characteristics

Repetitive compulsions- hand washing, tidying or sorting

Compulsions reduce anxiety- the repetitive behaviours help in reducing anxiety

Emotional characteristics

anxiety and distress- due to obsessive thoughts

Depression- due to levels of anxiety

Guilt and disgust- due to the need to complete rituals

Cognitive characteristics

obsessions are recurrent- 90% of OCD. They may be frightening and/or embarrassing. They are seen as uncontrollable which creates anxiety. The person recognises the impulses or thoughts are a product of their own mind