Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterised by obsessional thoughts that repeatedly enter consciousness against the person’s will. The thoughts and ruminations are unpleasant, abhorrent or out of keeping with the patient’s character. Insight is preserved and the person feels compelled to resist or neutralise the unwelcome thoughts, at least initially.

The commonest obsessions relate to contamination or doubt. Sexual, violent and religious themes are also common. Obsessions may include vivid mental ideas and images involving contamination, sex or violence.Compulsions are repeated stereotypical actions carried out in response to obsessional thoughts. They relieve the tension produced by obsessional thoughts and may have a symbolic, magical quality. They are never pleasurable for the person to perform. Repeating rituals are seen in 50% of OCD but checking, cleaning and counting are also common. Striving for completeness or symmetry also occurs.

So if you get awful thoughts coming into your mind, even when you try to keep them out or you have to touch or count things or repeat the same action like washing over and over you could have OCD and it is time to seek treatment.

Our treatment approach for OCD

Our approach to treating OCD combines individualised treatment programmes with treatment based on current clinical evidence. There are two treatments available for OCD: talking therapies and medication.Medication can be effective in improving severe OCD.

To make an appointment confidentially please ring Malone Medical Chambers, Belfast on phone number 028 90667676

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