WHAT IS OCD?

‘OCD is a disabling condition. It leads to intrusive thoughts that enter the mind against a person’s will. Sometimes those affected know the thoughts are irrational; other times they believe them – and they can lead people to carry out certain behaviours or ‘compulsions’ repeatedly to stop the thought from happening. These can take the form of actions or further thoughts, such as reviewing memories. The experience can be very distressing and can impact a person’s family, social and work life. Treatment usually takes the form of antidepressant medication or psychological therapy, which aims to help someone face their thoughts without the need to “correct” them with compulsions.’