OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER
Do you have intrusive uncontrolled thoughts about harming others, making mistakes, or needing things to be “just right” ?
Do you repeatedly check things (such as locks, appliances, messages, or work) even after you know they’re already correct?
Do you wash, clean, or avoid people or objects because of fear of germs or contamination beyond what feels reasonable?
Do you repeat actions, words, numbers, or mental rituals until they feel “right” or complete?
Do you frequently ask others for reassurance or confirmation about your thoughts, decisions, or safety?
Do these thoughts or behaviours take up a lot of time or interfere with your daily life, relationships, or work?
Understanding OCD
In Canada, about 1 in 100 people aged 15 and older report having a diagnosis of obsessive–compulsive disorder. OCD typically begins early: many people start experiencing symptoms in childhood or adolescence, with studies showing that about 25 % of people exhibit OCD symptoms by age 14 and the average age of onset is around 19.
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Signs you or a loved one requires intervention:
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Intrusive thoughts or urges feel overwhelming, distressing, or hard to control
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Engage in behaviours or mental rituals to reduce anxiety or prevent harm
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Excessive time is spent checking, washing, repeating, or seeking reassurance
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Relief is only temporary and the anxiety quickly returns
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You feel stuck, exhausted, ashamed, or frustrated by the cycle
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Symptoms have lasted for months or are getting worse over time
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Treatment for OCD
Without treatment, OCD symptoms often persist or worsen over time, becoming more time-consuming, distressing, and restrictive. Treatment helps break the cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors, leading to more lasting relief and improved quality of life.
The most effective types of treatment are:
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Exposure and Reponse Prevention (ERP)
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
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Medical Interventions
