What is ocd and how do I cope with the symptoms
What is OCD and how do I cope with the symptoms OCD Awareness Week October 13th- 19th
OCD is a mental health condition that is widely known but has many misconceptions surrounding what it is, how it affects someone’s behavior, and how to treat it. In this article, we will outline what OCD is and how to treat it if you are affected by the condition.
What is OCD?
OCD otherwise known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition in which a person has obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. It is commonly thought that these compulsions surround only hygiene and cleanliness however this is not the case, OCD covers a much broader range of behaviors.
An obsession refers to an unwanted thought that repeatedly enters your mind causing high levels of stress and anxiety. A compulsion is a repetitive behaviour brought on by these obsessive thoughts. For example, someone may have an obsessive fear of being burgled so their compulsive behaviours may include checking all windows and doors are locked several times before leaving the house.
Some examples of common obsessive fears include;
- ● Contamination
- ● Safety
- ● Superstitious obsessions
- ● Symmetry and order
- ● Illness
- ● Loss of control Some examples of common compulsions include;
- ● Excessive cleaning
- ● Excessive checking of safety
- ● Orders and arranging
- ● Avoidance
- ● Repetitive rituals What can I do to manage my OCD? Talking to a GP about your symptoms is always helpful as they can offer great support. A GP may prescribe antidepressants to someone experiencing OCD to balance the chemicals in the brain and ease the anxious feelings brought on by the condition. These treatments can be very effective but take a few weeks to take effect so do not be disheartened if you cannot see results immediately. The GP may also suggest a course of talking therapy such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which tackles the obsessive thoughts as they emerge. If you have already spoken to the GP, you can do many things at home to ease the symptoms.
● Distract yourself from your obsessive thoughts with other activities
- ● Keep note of when why and how your OCD symptoms worsen, there might be a pattern that can help you prevent those behaviors
- ● Use Meditation and grounding techniques
- ● Get more sleep
- ● Exercise
- ● Rebuild trust in yourself by making decisions independently, the more you put yourself out of your comfort zone with your compulsions the more confidence you will have in yourself and the less they will reappear You can also consider joining a OCD support group as they provide a chance to seek reassurance and reduce feelings of isolation within the condition. National charities like OCD Action, OCD-UK, and TOP UK can provide more information about support groups in your area. Congratulate yourself The first step in improving any health condition is to do research and find out what works for you so just by reading this article you have made an important first step of soothing your relationship with OCD. Congratulate yourself on the small steps you make to make life easier.