Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Definition
Everyone has worries from time to time, however those with OCD often cannot stop their worrying thoughts which then become obsessional.
OCD can often fall under the umbrella of being an anxiety disorder. People with OCD often experience obsessional thoughts, such as needing to count to 20, despite the fact they’re often aware the behaviour is irrational.
Signs & Symptoms
These obsessional thoughts can come in many different forms, such as:
- Fear of dirt, germs or contamination
- A need for symmetry, order, and precision
- Religious obsessions
- Preoccupation with body wastes
- Lucky and unlucky numbers, needing to count to a certain number
- Sexual or aggressive thoughts
- Fear of illness or harm coming to oneself or relatives
- Preoccupation with household items
- Intrusive sounds or words
- Feeling the need to carry out an action despite often knowing that it is irrational, these actions are called compulsions.
There are some common compulsions that people with OCD perform to try and alleviate their anxiety such as:
- Hand washing, showering, and teeth brushing
- Going in and out of doorways, needing to move through spaces in a special way, or rereading, erasing, and rewriting
- Making sure that an appliance is off or a door is locked and in children, repeatedly checking homework
- Touching rituals
- Rituals to prevent harming self or others
- Ordering or arranging objects
- Counting rituals
- Hoarding and collecting things of no apparent value
- Cleaning rituals at home or with certain items
Treatment Options
OCD can potentially be treated with medication or talking therapy or a combination of both.
Assessment Elements
- Some questionnaires may be required to be completed by yourself or other third parties (if you are in agreement)
- Detailed questions will be asked during the assessment process regarding the patient's history, presenting concerns and desired outcomes
- Any pre-existing letters or materials from other clinicians who have assessed or treated the patient may be requested
- Depending on the patient’s or family's medical history, further cardiac investigations may be required. If so, we can provide you contact details of trusted clinics where these can be undertaken, or you can ask your GP for a referral
- Weight, height, pulse and blood pressure may potentially be taken or requested (if applicable)
- Psychoeducation strategies offered and written resources provided
- If OCD is diagnosed then medication may potentially be discussed and prescribed (if consent obtained) during the assessment process and if there are no significant physical health concerns
- If medication is commenced, then regular 30 minute review appointments (approx. every 1 to 3 months) at our centre will be required to safely monitor the patient's progress
Our OCD Pathways
Read about our unique OCD pathways for:
Submit an enquiry using the button below. Our Enquiries Team will telephone you to discuss.
