Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a well-known mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. However, it can often be referred to as simply just a trait instead of a serious illness. So what actually is OCD?

Officially in the UK, around 1.2% of the population are diagnosed with OCD, with symptoms usually starting in early adulthood. It is a distressing condition that can severely impact a persons’ day-to-day life.

Frequent intrusive thoughts are followed by compulsive behaviours in an attempt to relieve the anxiety. This may work momentarily, however the cycle then repeats itself.

Even though OCD is a wide-ranging disorder, medication and therapy have been proven to help manage the effects.

In reality, this is a stark difference to someone who feels the need to keep their life in meticulous order, through cleaning for example.

For more information on services that can help, please visit www.nhs.uk/mental-health/get-urgent-help-for-mental-health.