Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Understand, Manage and Regain Control

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, commonly known as OCD, is a mental health condition that involves persistent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviours or mental acts. These behaviours are performed in an attempt to reduce distress or prevent something bad from happening, but they are often not connected in a realistic way to the feared outcome.

OCD is not simply about being neat or liking things a certain way. It can be distressing, time-consuming and interfere with daily life. Effective treatment and support can help individuals regain control and improve their quality of life.

What is OCD

OCD is characterised by two main components:

Obsessions
Intrusive, unwanted and distressing thoughts, images or urges that repeatedly enter the mind. Common obsessions include:

• Fear of contamination from germs or illness
• Fear of harming oneself or others
• Unwanted taboo thoughts involving sex, religion or violence
• Fear of something terrible happening unless things are done a certain way
• Excessive concern with order, symmetry or exactness

Compulsions
Repetitive behaviours or mental acts performed to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions or to prevent a feared event. Common compulsions include:

• Repeated hand washing or cleaning
• Checking locks, stoves or appliances
• Counting, repeating words or praying silently
• Rewriting or redoing tasks until they feel “just right”
• Seeking reassurance from others

While compulsions may bring temporary relief, they reinforce the cycle of OCD and often grow in frequency or complexity over time.

What Causes OCD

The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but research shows it likely involves a combination of:

• Genetic factors or family history
• Differences in brain structure or function, especially in areas related to error detection and emotional regulation
• Environmental factors such as stress, trauma or major life transitions
• Learned patterns of thinking and behaviour

In Australia, OCD affects around 2 to 3 percent of the population and often begins in adolescence or early adulthood.

Myths about OCD

Myth: Everyone is “a bit OCD” sometimes
Truth: OCD is a clinical condition involving distressing and time-consuming thoughts and behaviours. It is not the same as liking things tidy or organised.

Myth: People with OCD can just stop their compulsions if they try hard enough
Truth: OCD is not about willpower. The compulsions are driven by intense anxiety and require targeted treatment.

Myth: OCD is always visible
Truth: Many people with OCD perform compulsions mentally or hide their distress, making it less obvious to others.

Why Seeking Help Matters

OCD rarely improves without treatment and can become more severe over time. Professional support can:

• Reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessions and compulsions
• Improve functioning at home, work or school
• Support emotional wellbeing and reduce shame or isolation
• Help individuals and families understand the condition and break the cycle

How MeHelp Psychology Can Assist You

We offer evidence-based treatment for OCD tailored to the individual’s needs. Our psychologists are trained in approaches that help reduce symptoms and build long-term coping skills. Treatment options include:

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard therapy for OCD
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to challenge unhelpful beliefs and thought patterns
• Mindfulness and distress tolerance skills to manage anxiety
• Support for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression or perfectionism
• Psychoeducation for families and loved ones

Real-Life Example

Ethan, 21, had intense fears about contaminating others and spent hours each day washing his hands and cleaning surfaces. He avoided public places and struggled to attend university. With ERP and CBT, Ethan gradually reduced his rituals, confronted his fears in a structured way, and rebuilt confidence in his ability to tolerate uncertainty. He now manages his symptoms and is completing his studies with renewed focus.

Practical Steps You Can Take Today

• Notice and track the patterns of your thoughts and compulsions
• Avoid avoiding: short-term relief reinforces long-term distress
• Delay or reduce rituals gradually when possible
• Challenge the urge to seek reassurance repeatedly
• Educate yourself with accurate, evidence-based resources
• Seek support from a professional trained in OCD treatment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is OCD treatable
Yes. OCD responds well to structured psychological treatment, especially ERP. Many people experience significant symptom reduction.

Can medication help with OCD
Yes. In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used alongside therapy. Speak to your GP or psychiatrist for personalised advice.

How long does treatment take
Treatment duration varies, but many people notice improvement within 10 to 20 sessions. Consistency and practice between sessions are important.

Do you offer support for families or partners
Yes. We provide education and guidance for families to help them support a loved one with OCD without reinforcing compulsions.

Take the First Step

You do not have to face OCD alone. With the right tools and support, you can reduce its hold on your life and reclaim your time, energy and peace of mind.

Book a confidential session with MeHelp Psychology today and begin the path toward freedom and calm.