Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Although an anxiety disorder, I feel OCD merits its own section because I believe it is sometimes trivialised by people, who don't have an in depth understanding of what it entails and how those affected can have their lives ruled by it. OCD can have a detrimental effect on work, school/college, relationships and friendships. It has been suggested that around 1 in 50 people will be affected by OCD. It usually consists of 3 parts...
We all have little quirks and even rituals we like to perform, however it's when these become a major part of our life, inducing severe anxieties if they are not carried out that it may be something more serious. People with OCD often have an underlying fear. For example somebody who has a compulsion to clean may have mysophobia (fear of germs and contamination) whilst hoarders sometimes believe they will be punished if they throw anything out. Whilst CBT is a common treatment, sometimes Counselling can support if there is a comorbidity (depression for example)
Although an anxiety disorder, I feel OCD merits its own section because I believe it is sometimes trivialised by people, who don't have an in depth understanding of what it entails and how those affected can have their lives ruled by it. OCD can have a detrimental effect on work, school/college, relationships and friendships. It has been suggested that around 1 in 50 people will be affected by OCD. It usually consists of 3 parts...
- The thoughts that make you anxious (obsessions)
- The anxiety you feel
- The things you do to reduce your anxiety (compulsions)
We all have little quirks and even rituals we like to perform, however it's when these become a major part of our life, inducing severe anxieties if they are not carried out that it may be something more serious. People with OCD often have an underlying fear. For example somebody who has a compulsion to clean may have mysophobia (fear of germs and contamination) whilst hoarders sometimes believe they will be punished if they throw anything out. Whilst CBT is a common treatment, sometimes Counselling can support if there is a comorbidity (depression for example)