Understanding

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is a mental health condition characterised by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These cycles can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress.

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What does OCD feel like?

OCD can feel overwhelming, with persistent thoughts you can’t control and rituals you feel compelled to perform. This may lead to frustration, shame, and exhaustion, as well as difficulties in work, relationships, and self-esteem.

How to overcome OCD with therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), especially with exposure and response prevention (ERP), is the most effective treatment. Therapy helps you face fears, resist compulsions, and change unhelpful thought patterns. Medication such as SSRIs may also be prescribed for moderate to severe cases.

Through OCD counselling, you can:

  • Understand and challenge obsessive thoughts

  • Learn to resist compulsive behaviours

  • Reduce anxiety and regain control over your life

  • Improve functioning and self-confidence

Step-by-step guide to managing OCD

  • Recognise symptoms: Identify obsessions and compulsions affecting your life.

  • Seek professional help: Consult a therapist experienced in OCD treatment.

  • Engage in CBT with ERP: Gradually face fears and learn to resist compulsions.

  • Consider medication: Discuss SSRIs or other options if symptoms are severe.

  • Track progress: Regularly review your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan.

Understanding

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is a mental health condition characterised by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These cycles can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress.

Abstract image with soft gradients of cream and green, creating a calm and airy atmosphere.

What does OCD feel like?

OCD can feel overwhelming, with persistent thoughts you can’t control and rituals you feel compelled to perform. This may lead to frustration, shame, and exhaustion, as well as difficulties in work, relationships, and self-esteem.

How to overcome OCD with therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), especially with exposure and response prevention (ERP), is the most effective treatment. Therapy helps you face fears, resist compulsions, and change unhelpful thought patterns. Medication such as SSRIs may also be prescribed for moderate to severe cases.

Through OCD counselling, you can:

  • Understand and challenge obsessive thoughts

  • Learn to resist compulsive behaviours

  • Reduce anxiety and regain control over your life

  • Improve functioning and self-confidence

Step-by-step guide to managing OCD

  • Recognise symptoms: Identify obsessions and compulsions affecting your life.

  • Seek professional help: Consult a therapist experienced in OCD treatment.

  • Engage in CBT with ERP: Gradually face fears and learn to resist compulsions.

  • Consider medication: Discuss SSRIs or other options if symptoms are severe.

  • Track progress: Regularly review your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan.

Understanding

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is a mental health condition characterised by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These cycles can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress.

Abstract image with soft gradients of cream and green, creating a calm and airy atmosphere.

What does OCD feel like?

OCD can feel overwhelming, with persistent thoughts you can’t control and rituals you feel compelled to perform. This may lead to frustration, shame, and exhaustion, as well as difficulties in work, relationships, and self-esteem.

How to overcome OCD with therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), especially with exposure and response prevention (ERP), is the most effective treatment. Therapy helps you face fears, resist compulsions, and change unhelpful thought patterns. Medication such as SSRIs may also be prescribed for moderate to severe cases.

Through OCD counselling, you can:

  • Understand and challenge obsessive thoughts

  • Learn to resist compulsive behaviours

  • Reduce anxiety and regain control over your life

  • Improve functioning and self-confidence

Step-by-step guide to managing OCD

  • Recognise symptoms: Identify obsessions and compulsions affecting your life.

  • Seek professional help: Consult a therapist experienced in OCD treatment.

  • Engage in CBT with ERP: Gradually face fears and learn to resist compulsions.

  • Consider medication: Discuss SSRIs or other options if symptoms are severe.

  • Track progress: Regularly review your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan.

Let's find your perfect therapist.

Let's find your perfect therapist.

Let's find your perfect therapist.

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Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.

Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.

Logo for Manchester Counselling – in-person and online therapy service
Logo for Manchester Counselling – in-person and online therapy service