Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is the name given to a condition where people have uncontrollable and unreasonable obsessions or compulsions that are excessive.
We all worry, occasionally, about whether we've left the gas on, or the door locked, and we describe people as being obsessed with work, football, a girlfriend or boyfriend. With OCD, the problems are so severe that they interfere with everyday life.
Although those with moderate or severe OCD will usually need treatment to overcome the disorder completely, there are still things you can do to help yourself.
OCD has three main parts
- the thoughts that make you anxious (obsessions);
- the anxiety you feel;
- the things you do to reduce your anxiety (compulsions).
OCD is an anxiety disorder. Click here for some advice on addressing and reducing your anxiety.
It is important that you do not try to dismiss the thoughts that make you anxious. Anxiety feels unpleasant but by itself, it will not harm you. Exposing yourself to your anxious thoughts is a way of taking control of them. Compulsive behaviour may reduce your anxiety in the short term but is likely to increase it in the long term.
Resist your compulsive behaviour not the anxious thought.
Separate your own thoughts from the thoughts that are caused by OCD. Try to become aware of when the OCD is thinking and making you feel anxious. Remember that you are not your OCD - identifying the thoughts caused by OCD will help you to take control of them.
Question the thoughts that you are having
- Are they realistic? What is the evidence?
- What is the best, worst and most realistic outcome?
- Is this thought useful to you? - if not it's probably the OCD thinking and not you
Remember that we all have odd or intrusive thoughts at times. Having a thought does not make you a bad person.
Help is also available for you from the Student Wellbeing Service - you can find our contact details here.
You may also wish to visit these pages for some more information on OCD.
www.mind.org.uk
