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OCD

About OCD

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) used to reduce distress. It can be time-consuming and feel hard to control. Prevalence estimates in Australia are in the low single digits, and effective treatments are available.

How OCD can show up

  • Intrusive thoughts: Unwanted images or fears that feel distressing or out of character.
  • Compulsive behaviours: Checking, washing, counting, or repeating actions to feel safe.
  • Mental rituals: Reviewing, neutralising, or seeking certainty in your mind.
  • Avoidance: Steering clear of triggers, people, or places that feel risky.
  • Need for certainty: Difficulty tolerating doubt or "not quite right" feelings.
  • Time and energy drain: Rituals that interfere with work, study, or relationships.

Further information about OCD

  • Contamination fears: Excessive worries about germs or illness.
  • Harm or responsibility: Fears about causing harm or being at fault.
  • Symmetry and ordering: Strong urges to arrange or repeat until it feels right.
  • Primarily mental compulsions: "Pure O" patterns with internal rituals.
  • Related conditions: Body dysmorphic concerns, hoarding, or tic-related OCD.

Self-help ideas for OCD

  • Track triggers, obsessions, and compulsions to notice patterns.
  • Practise delaying or shortening rituals where possible.
  • Reduce reassurance seeking and tolerate small amounts of uncertainty.
  • Use grounding exercises to manage spikes of anxiety.
  • Keep regular routines for sleep, movement, and meals.

When to see a psychologist or counsellor

Support can help when OCD symptoms are distressing or disruptive.

  • Obsessions or compulsions take up significant time each day.
  • Avoidance is shrinking your world or limiting activities.
  • Intrusive thoughts are causing distress or shame.
  • You want structured help such as Exposure and Response Prevention.

How we help with OCD

  • Evidence-based therapy such as CBT with Exposure and Response Prevention.
  • Psychoeducation to understand the OCD cycle.
  • Skills for managing uncertainty and reducing rituals.
  • Support for co-occurring anxiety, depression, or stress.