OCD

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OCD takes enough from you, it doesn't have to take everything

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can involve intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts intended to reduce distress (compulsions). It can have a substantial impact on daily life. Specialist assessment can help identify suitable support.

General information, not medical advice

This page is for general information and does not diagnose, treat, or replace advice from a GP or other qualified health professional. If symptoms are new, severe, worsening, or you are worried about your safety, seek appropriate medical or urgent support.

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Signs and symptoms

You might be experiencing ocd if you recognise any of the following:

  • Intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant distress
  • Repetitive compulsive behaviours (checking, washing, arranging, counting)
  • Mental compulsions (praying, counting, repeating phrases mentally)
  • Temporary relief from compulsions, followed by return of obsessions
  • Significant time spent on obsessions and compulsions (often 1+ hours daily)
  • Avoidance of triggers that provoke obsessions
  • OCD ego-dystonic nature, thoughts feel alien and against your values

What causes ocd?

OCD is rarely caused by a single factor. Common contributing factors include:

  • Neurological differences in how the brain processes threat and error signals
  • Genetic factors, OCD runs in families
  • Stressful or traumatic life events that can trigger onset
  • Responsibility beliefs, feeling excessively responsible for harm prevention
  • Heightened disgust sensitivity in some OCD subtypes

How therapy can help

For OCD, the approach to therapy matters. Exposure and response prevention (ERP), a specialised form of CBT, is recommended in UK guidance for some people. It involves carefully planned work with feared triggers and compulsive responses. A qualified clinician can assess whether it is appropriate and agree a plan with you.

Therapeutic approaches we use

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

    A specialised CBT approach that uses graded, planned exposure to feared triggers while reducing compulsive responses.

  • CBT for OCD

    Addresses the beliefs that maintain OCD, such as overestimated responsibility, thought-action fusion, and intolerance of uncertainty.

  • Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT)

    Specifically addresses the OCD reasoning process, helping you recognise that obsessional fears are based on imagination rather than reality.

  • ACT for OCD

    Helps you accept that intrusive thoughts are a normal human experience, and choose valued action rather than compulsive responses to distress.

Frequently asked questions

I have intrusive thoughts but don't do rituals, can I still have OCD?

Yes. OCD can involve purely mental compulsions (ruminating, mentally reviewing, seeking reassurance in your head). It also includes 'Pure O', where compulsions are less visible but still present.

Will my therapist be shocked by my obsessions?

Not at all. Therapists specialising in OCD are very familiar with the full range of obsessional content, including the most disturbing themes. The content of your thoughts does not define you.

Is ERP as difficult as people say?

ERP can involve planned contact with anxiety while reducing compulsive responses. It should be collaborative, gradual, and delivered by someone suitably trained; no individual result is guaranteed.

Can OCD be cured?

There is no guaranteed cure. Recommended treatments can help some people manage OCD symptoms, but response and ongoing support needs vary. A qualified professional can discuss realistic goals.

Content information and sources

Editorial status: Content checked against UK clinical guidance and NHS information. Reviewed . This is an editorial check; no named clinician is represented as having reviewed this page.

Authoritative UK sources relevant to this topic:

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