Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves persistent, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that can feel intrusive or distressing, along with repetitive behaviours or mental rituals that are used to reduce anxiety or create a sense of relief.

These experiences can take up a lot of time and energy, and may begin to impact daily life, relationships, work, study, or overall wellbeing. Many people with OCD recognise that their fears or behaviours might not fully make sense, yet the thoughts can feel powerful and difficult to ignore, and the urge to carry out rituals can feel very strong or hard to resist. Over time, this cycle can become exhausting and take up significant mental and emotional space.

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OCD is often a response that is trying to protect you from harm, responsibility, or distress. 

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How might OCD feel or show up?

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• Intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that feel disturbing, frightening, or out of character

• A strong sense of doubt or uncertainty that feels hard to tolerate

• Repetitive mental or physical behaviours aimed at reducing distress or preventing harm

• Seeking reassurance or mentally reviewing past actions

• Feeling responsible for preventing something bad from happening

• Avoiding situations, people, or thoughts that trigger distress

• Feeling stuck, trapped, or exhausted by your own mind

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These experiences can feel isolating, particularly when the thoughts do not align with your values or who you know yourself to be.

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