Lee Kennedy 
Psychology

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common and persistent disorder where the individual has overpowering, reoccurring thoughts, images or impulses that are intrusive and distressing. These ‘obsessions’ and ‘compulsions’ are repeated over and over by the individual. OCD affects two to three per cent of the population (more than 500,000 Australians). It usually begins in late childhood or early adolescence. Not all rituals or habits are compulsions. We all double-check things sometimes. But in general, a person with OCD:

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• Can't control their thoughts or behaviours, even when the thoughts or behaviours are acknowledged as excessive.

• Spends at least one hour a day on the specific thoughts or behaviours.

• Does not experience pleasure when executing the behaviours or rituals, but could feel short-term relief from the anxiety the thoughts cause.

• Daily life is significantly interrupted due to the thoughts or behaviours.

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Examples of obsessions include:

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• Fear of germs or contamination.

• Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm.

• Aggressive thoughts towards others or self.

• Having things symmetrical or in perfect order.

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Examples of Compulsions include:

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Excessive cleaning and/or handwashing.

Ordering and arranging things in a particular, precise way.

Repeatedly checking on things, such as repeatedly checking to see if the door is locked or that the oven is off.

Compulsive counting.

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Contact Lee Kennedy Psychology today to discuss a treatment plan.