Obsessions and Compulsions

What are obsessions and compulsions?

Obsessions are upsetting thoughts, images or urges that come into your mind when you don’t want them to. Obsessional thoughts are usually about something bad happening, that you need to do something to stop, or thoughts that you might do something bad. You might know that the thoughts aren’t likely to happen, which can be frustrating. Sometimes it can feel like your thoughts are taking over and controlling your behaviour.

Compulsions are things that we do to try and stop the discomfort or stress linked to obsessional thoughts.

A lot of people like to put things in a particular place, keep things clean, or do things in a set order.  This doesn’t mean that you have OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder).

What is obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD?

If you have OCD, you might:

• Feel like your mind is being invaded by horrible thoughts.
• Feel scared, disgusted, tearful, guilty, doubtful, or depressed.
• Have a strong urge to do something to stop the feelings.
• Feel better for a while after rituals.
• Need to ask people to check things for you or tell you that it’s okay.

Obsessions and compulsions can come in all shapes and sizes. When you have had compulsions for a long time, you might find that you don’t have obsessional thoughts anymore, unless you try to not do your compulsions. Some people have very upsetting obsessional thoughts, but they don’t think that they have compulsions, because their compulsions are thoughts and ways of thinking.  Obsessional thoughts can be around things like danger, dirt and contamination, or worries around sexuality and religion. You might feel guilty, or even ashamed of the thoughts.

If you are worried about your thoughts, talk to someone you trust or check out our Get Help links below where you can find local support. You are not alone.

Everyone with OCD has a different lived experience of how it can impact their lives. The videos below from MH:2K and OCD UK share real people’s experiences with OCD.