Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness in which people experience repeated, unwanted thoughts, ideas, or feelings (obsessions) that can make them feel compelled to engage in repetitive behaviours to try and alleviate the distress or neutralise the thoughts (compulsions).

Some common compulsions, like washing hands, checking on things, or cleaning, can get in the way of a person's daily life and interactions with others. Many patients with OCD experience both obsessions and compulsions, but some experience only one repetitive behaviour.

Many people who don't have OCD may still have upsetting or intrusive thoughts, repetitive behaviours, or do the same things over and over. Research has demonstrated that most people experience intrusive, bizarre things and/or unwanted thoughts from time to time. However, people with OCD tend to worry considerably about these intrusive thoughts and what they might mean.

People who experience clinical OCD can experience intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours to a degree that significantly impacts their lives. They may find not doing their repetitive behaviours distressing and often have trouble managing their obsessive thoughts, even when they might know that the idea is irrational.

What causes Obsessive-compulsive Disorder?

The specific cause of OCD is unknown to experts. It is hypothesised that a combination of genetic and environmental factors influences the development of OCD.

Research suggests that OCD may affect around 4% of people in Australia at some point in their lives. OCD can co-occur with other mental health difficulties, such as anxiety disorders, depression, eating difficulties and sleep disturbance.

The Impacts of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder on Sufferers

Compulsions and obsessions can consume a person's entire day and disrupt family and social ties. They can also impact day-to-day functioning, including work, study and attending to home tasks. 

Avoidance of situations, thoughts and images that trigger obsessions or compulsions is common in OCD. This avoidance (and other OCD symptoms) may become more pressing as OCD progresses. People with OCD may find it challenging to perform routine tasks like eating, drinking, shopping, or reading. Some Individuals may find it difficult to leave their house.

OCD can be exacerbated by co-occurring difficulties such as depression and anxiety disorders such as social anxiety, panic disorder, and separation anxiety.

It is not uncommon for people suffering from OCD to feel ashamed of their symptoms, which can exacerbate their difficulties and lead to them going to considerable lengths to conceal their compulsions.

Families may become intensely involved in the sufferer's rituals before the disorder is discovered and treated, causing distress and disruption to family members.

Related Article: What Are Panic Attacks And Why Do They Happen?

Obsessive-compulsive Disorder Treatment

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and/or medication is considered one of the most effective treatments for OCD. One of the most effective therapies is a type of CBT known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

This therapy involves confronting the thoughts, images, objects or situations that trigger anxiety and obsessions without trying to neutralise and/or alleviate the anxiety through compulsions.

A licensed mental health practitioner (such as a psychologist, social worker, or mental health counsellor) often provides outpatient exposure and response prevention.

Medications can only be prescribed by licensed medical professionals (such as your doctor or psychiatrist).

Meet Your Clinical Psychologists In Newcastle

Dr Emma Doolan is a Clinical Psychologist based in Newcastle. With a collaborative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. 

Emma is experienced in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities like schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has completed her registration as a clinical psychologist from AHPRA. Emma is a member of several professional associations, including ACPA, APS, AACBT, and APN.

Paige Cornell is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who have experience in therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. She focuses on building a solid therapeutic relationship and tailoring treatment to each individual. Paige has experience in private practice, NGOs, and forensic settings. 

She works with a diverse range of mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, substance abuse, and offending behaviours. Paige is particularly interested in helping LGBTQI+ individuals and those dealing with trauma and substance abuse. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and a board-approved supervisor for psychologists. Paige is a member of ACPA and APS, holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychological Science (Honours).

Taylah Armstrong is a Clinical Psychologist in Newcastle. She focuses on developing solid therapeutic relationships to assist individuals in enhancing their well-being and achieving their goals. Taylah is skilled in treating various concerns such as anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders. 

She utilises evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Taylah has worked in public healthcare, primary care, and education sectors. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist by AHPRA and holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Newcastle.

Paige Whitfield is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle with experience in private and public health settings. She collaborates with health professionals, families, and schools to provide evidence-based treatments like CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT for various issues. Paige has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (Honours) and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and is a member of APS and ACPA.

Dr Kaitlin Fitzgerald is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who takes a collaborative and client-centred approach to therapy. She creates a warm and relaxed environment for clients, aiming to make therapy sessions comfortable and even enjoyable. Kaitlin holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. In addition to her private practice at ELD Psychology, she also works in public mental health, treating adults with various mental health issues. 

Kaitlin has experience working with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. Kaitlin is fully registered as a clinical psychologist with AHPRA and is approved to supervise provisional and registered psychologists.

Eliza Newton is a person-centred Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping clients explore their deeper selves. She tailors her approach to each client, using psychodynamic therapy for self-exploration or structured techniques like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Schema Therapy. Eliza focuses on individuals overcoming childhood trauma, including Complex PTSD, and helps those with ADHD develop organisational and emotional well-being strategies. With experience in private practice, inpatient settings, and psychiatric rehabilitation, she addresses challenges from anxiety and mood disorders to severe mental illness.

Eliza holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with AHPRA and is a member of AAPi and ACPA.

Disclaimer

The content provided on this blog is intended for Australian audiences and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared here is based on general knowledge and experience in the field of psychology, but it may not be applicable to your specific situation.

Always seek the advice of your psychologist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a psychological condition or treatment. Never disregard professional psychological advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, or dial 000 immediately. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or institutions.