Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
When unwanted thoughts won’t let go
What is OCD?
Most of us have experienced a moment of doubt on the way out the door — did I lock up? Did I turn off the stove? — and felt the urge to go back and check. That kind of fleeting worry is a normal part of life. But for some people, these thoughts don’t pass. They loop and intensify, bringing a level of distress that is genuinely difficult to live with.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, involves two connected experiences. Obsessions are persistent, unwanted thoughts that create significant anxiety — thoughts that feel intrusive and hard to dismiss, even when you know rationally that they may be unfounded. Compulsions are the behaviours or rituals that follow, performed in an attempt to relieve that anxiety. Checking the lock five times rather than once. Washing hands repeatedly. Counting, arranging, or mentally reviewing events to try to feel safe
The temporary relief that compulsions provide is real — but it tends to be short-lived, and over time the cycle can become exhausting and all-consuming. OCD affects around 1% of the population, and its impact on daily life, relationships, and wellbeing can be profound.
What OCD looks like
If you are struggling with OCD you might notice:
Obsessions
Obsessive thoughts tend to cluster around particular themes. Fears of contamination are among the most well known, but obsessions can also centre on fears of harm coming to yourself or others, concerns about disasters, unwanted thoughts of a violent, sexual, or blasphemous nature, or a distressing preoccupation with certain topics. It’s important to know that having these thoughts does not reflect who you are or what you want — they are a feature of the condition, not a reflection of your character.
Compulsions
Compulsions most commonly involve checking, washing, counting, arranging, or a need for rigid ordering and symmetry. Some people also find themselves mentally reviewing or memorising things as a way of managing anxiety.
Coping with OCD
OCD can fluctuate over time — symptoms may ease for a period and then return — and without appropriate support, relapse is common. Many people living with OCD also experience depression or find themselves turning to substances to cope with the ongoing stress of their symptoms, which is why finding the right help matters.
You don't need to be embarrassed to reach out
One of the things that stops people seeking support for OCD is a sense of shame about the content of their thoughts. Please know that our psychologists are highly experienced in working with OCD in all its forms, and you will be met with understanding, not judgement. Whatever your obsessions involve, you will not shock or alarm us — we’re here to help, not to evaluate you.
Your Experience at BlueSky
At BlueSky Psychology, our experienced psychologists bring Masters-level expertise to the treatment of OCD. We’ll begin with a thorough assessment of your specific experience, and from there develop an individualised plan that draws on cognitive and behavioural approaches with a strong evidence base — including strategies that have been shown to significantly reduce OCD symptoms over time.
If OCD has been affecting your life and you’re ready to talk to someone, we’d love to hear from you. Book an appointment online or call us on 08 8212 3944. You’ll find us at Level 10, 108 King William Street, Adelaide.
Your Adelaide Psychologists
Our practice is dedicated to facilitating a safe container where you can explore your challenges and find your path to greater well-being. We have an experienced and diverse team who focus on establishing a safe and compassionate therapeutic alliance and use evidence-based therapeutic approaches for our counselling services. Treatment can be delivered in-person or via Telehealth.
Take the First Step
If obsessive compulsive disorder is affecting your life, we’re here to help. Our central Adelaide location makes it easy to access the support you need.
Contact us today:
Phone: 08 8212 3944
Book online or call to speak with our team
BlueSky Psychology
Level 10, 108 King William Street
Adelaide, South Australia, 5000