Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common and often misunderstood mental health condition. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life and it is far more complex than the cultural stereotype of being ‘a bit OCD’ about tidiness.
OCD is characterised by two main features: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that are distressing and difficult to control. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental acts carried out in response to an obsession, usually in an attempt to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening.
OCD affects approximately 1–2% of the UK population at any given time, making it one of the more prevalent mental health conditions. Despite this, many people live with OCD for years before receiving the right support.
Signs and Symptoms of OCD
OCD manifests differently from person to person, but common signs include:
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts that feel disturbing or out of character
- Intense anxiety, guilt, or discomfort triggered by these thoughts
- Repetitive checking behaviours (for example, repeatedly checking whether doors are locked or appliances are switched off)
- Excessive cleaning or handwashing
- Arranging objects in a specific order or pattern
- Mental rituals such as counting, repeating words, or mentally reviewing events
- Avoiding situations, objects, or people that trigger obsessional thoughts
- Seeking reassurance repeatedly from others
It is important to note that the presence of intrusive thoughts alone does not indicate OCD — most people experience unwanted thoughts from time to time. OCD is diagnosed when these thoughts cause significant distress and when compulsions take up a substantial amount of time or interfere with daily life.
What Causes OCD?
The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but research suggests it involves a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Neurological factors: Brain imaging studies have identified differences in the brain circuitry of people with OCD, particularly in areas involved in error detection and habit formation.
Genetics: OCD can run in families, though having a family member with OCD does not mean you will develop it.
Life experiences: Stressful or traumatic events, particularly in childhood, can contribute to the development of OCD.
Thinking styles: Certain ways of relating to thoughts such as believing that having a thought is as bad as acting on it, can maintain OCD over time.
How Long Does OCD Treatment Take?
The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of OCD and how long it has been present. Some individuals benefit from a longer course of therapy, particularly where OCD is severe or has been present for many years.
Recovery from OCD is rarely linear, there may be setbacks along the way. With the right support, however, most people are able to significantly reduce the impact of OCD on their lives.
Getting Support for OCD at PLE Health
At PLE Health, our clinical team includes psychologists and therapists with specialist experience in assessing and treating OCD. We offer thorough assessments to understand how OCD is presenting for you, followed by a tailored treatment plan using evidence-based approaches including CBT with ERP and ACT.
We understand how distressing and isolating OCD can be. Our aim is to provide compassionate, expert support that helps you regain control of your life.
If you are concerned about your own mental health or that of someone you know, please get in touch. We are here to help you find the right support.
01453 621444 | mytreatment@plehealth.com