What’s OCD and signs to look out for

OCD stands for obsessive compulsive disorder. OCD affects people differently, but in general, it usually causes a particular pattern of thoughts or behaviour.

It has 3 main elements:

  • Obsessions – where intrusive and distressing thoughts and images or urge to do something repeatedly enters your mind.
  • Emotions – the obsession causes a feeling of anxiety.
  • Compulsions – repetitive behaviour can occur as the person with OCD feels driven to do something as a result of the anxiety and distress caused by the obsession.

The behaviour often eases the anxiety but this is usually a temporary fix. The obsession and anxiety soon return, causing the cycle to begin again.

Intrusive thoughts are experienced by many of us, such as questioning if we turned the hair straighteners off or locked the car behind us. But when these thoughts become increasingly persistent or more unpleasant and harder to ignore, it could be OCD.

Some common obsessions people with OCD have may include:

  • A fear of hurting someone or yourself deliberately.
  • A fear of harming yourself or others by mistake.
  • A fear of contamination by infection or disease.
  • A need for things to be in order or symmetrical.

It can be common for people with OCD to hide their obsessions, and not all obsessions are obvious to people. They start as a way of trying to reduce or prevent anxiety caused by the intrusive thought.

Most people with OCD realize that their compulsive behaviour is irrational and makes no logical sense, but they cant stop acting on it ‘just in case’.

Common types of compulsive behavior in people with OCD include:

  • cleaning and hand washing
  • checking locks and switches
  • counting
  • hoarding
  • repeating words in their head
  • Ordering and arranging things
  • avoiding places and situations that could trigger their negative thoughts.

Most people with OCD hide their behaviour, so it can be hard to spot someone with the condition. However, if you or someone you know has OCD traits and it’s having a significant impact on your or their life, it is important to speak to someone. It’s unlikely that OCD will get better on it’s own, but with help and support, it can become more manageable and you can have an improved quality of life.

There are 2 main ways to get help:

1) refer yourself for therapy directly

2) speak to your GP for help

There is help available 24/7 for anyone who feel they can’t go on. This is through the Samaritans (link) or by calling NHS 111.

If you or your business is looking for courses and support regarding mental health, including OCD, visit www.bnsheconsultancy.com, call us on  07584 125665, or email info@bnshe.co.uk and we will be happy to help.

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