Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
"Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition concerned with obsessions (recurring thoughts, images or impulses which are difficult to get rid of) and compulsions (feelings that a person must repeat physical actions or mental acts)" (NICE, 2005, Clinical Guideline 31).
"Compulsions normally occur in response to obsessive thoughts. For example, someone who has an obsession about being contaminated by dirt or germs may experience a compulsion to clean something or wash their hands repeatedly. Compulsive actions are often used to cope with obsessive thoughts" (NICE, 2005, Clinical Guideline 31).
We all experience a disturbing thought or the check the front door is locked more than once from time to time and we can forget about these thoughts and actions. However, for someone with OCD, the thoughts and feelings of unease can be overwhelming and they will experience anxiety until they have acted in a way that will help to alleviate their distress. They may recognise that they are thinking and behaving in excessive ways but will feel unable to help themselves. OCD can impact on people and the way they live their lives in a variety of ways. Some people may appear to lead relatively normal lives whilst others may be unable to leave the house. As a result of the impact the condition can have on sufferers' lives, people with OCD may also experience depression. (Adapted from NICE, 2005, Clinical Guideline 31and MIND booklet Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
"It is estimated that approximately 1-2% of the population in the UK may be affected by OCD ranging from young children to older adults" (NICE, 2005, Clinical Guideline 31).
How can we help you
- Gateway team - the access point to mental health services
- Poole Book Prescription Scheme
There are books available about OCD from local libraries and book shops:
"Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder" by David Vale and Rob Wislon
"Obsessive Compulsive Disorder" by Frederick Toates and Olga Coshug-Toates
"Understanding Obsessions and Compulsions" by Frank Tallis
Below are detailed web links to information on OCD:
- www.ocduk.org
www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/pdf/cg031publicinfo.pdf - www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinformation.aspx
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Understanding/Understanding+obsessive-compulsive+disorder.htm
- www.ocdaction.org.uk
- www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=266
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