Obsessions are unwanted thoughts, images or urges that can feel distressing or difficult to control. Compulsions are repeated actions or behaviours that someone may feel they need to carry out to reduce anxiety or cope with these thoughts.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that can have a significant impact on everyday life, but support is available. On this page, you’ll find information, practical tips, self-help resources and organisations to help you understand OCD and find ways to manage it.
Understanding OCD
These resources explain what OCD is, how it can affect people and the support that is available.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) factsheet from Re-think Mental health. Information about OCD, including symptoms, causes and treatment.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder factsheet from NHS Inform. Learn about OCD, including common symptoms and where to get help.
What is OCD?’ factsheet from the International OCD Foundation. An introduction to OCD and how it can affect thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) factsheet from Mind. Information about OCD and advice on managing its impact.
Managing OCD
These resources offer practical advice, self-help techniques and information to help you manage OCD in everyday life.
A range of self-help resources from OCD UK. Information, tools and advice for people affected by OCD.
A guide to intrusive thoughts from Positive Psychology. Explains why intrusive thoughts happen and offers ideas for responding to them.
A guide to managing OCD from Help Guide. Advice on understanding OCD and finding ways to cope.
Information and activities on OCD from Get Self-help. Practical exercises based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Resources from OCD Action. Information and support for people affected by OCD.
25 tips for succeeding in your OCD treatment from the International OCD Foundation. Suggestions for getting the most from OCD treatment and support.
Tips for living with OCD from Web MD. Advice on managing OCD symptoms and looking after your wellbeing.
Breaking the OCD cycle from First Psychology. Information about how OCD patterns can develop and ways to start making changes.
Organisations and further support
These organisations provide information, advice and support for people affected by OCD.
OCD UK. A charity offering information, support and resources for people with OCD.
OCD Action. Provides support, information and advice for people affected by OCD.
International OCD Foundation. Offers education and resources about OCD and related conditions.
If you are looking for local support, please go to our service directory to find out what services and projects are available to you.
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