Adults
OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves two parts: obsessions, which are unwanted intrusive thoughts that cause distress, and compulsions, repetitive behaviours performed to reduce that distress. OCD is very treatable with the right therapy, and often medication.
Also searched as: obsessive compulsive disorder, intrusive thoughts, compulsive checking.
What the evidence says
1 in 25
people in India are estimated to experience OCD
- Fear of contamination or dirt
- Difficulty tolerating uncertainty or disorder
- Distressing intrusive thoughts about harm, aggression or taboo themes
- Repeated checking, such as locks or appliances
- Excessive hand-washing, counting or ordering
- Avoiding situations that trigger obsessions
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Psychiatric assessment and medication such as SSRIs where appropriate
- Combined therapy and medication for more persistent symptoms
- Family guidance to reduce accommodation of compulsions
Not sure yet?
A few private questions: Obsessions & compulsions self-check
Over the last month, how often have you experienced the following? Unwanted thoughts are far more common than most people realise. Scored on your device only, nothing is stored, and it is not a diagnosis.
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
A psychologist uses Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention to gradually reduce the power of obsessive fears, helping the person confront triggers without turning to compulsions.
Explore this serviceA psychiatrist can prescribe medication, commonly SSRIs, to ease symptoms, monitoring effectiveness and adjusting the treatment plan alongside psychotherapy.
Explore this serviceWho you'd work with
The disciplines involved
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself — we match you after a first conversation.
Psychology
Psychology & Therapy
Evidence-informed therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and older adults- held in a space where you are understood as a whole person.
Learn morePsychiatry
Psychiatry
Careful psychiatric assessment and medication support, always coordinated with your therapist and wider care team.
Learn moreQuestions
OCD: questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
Yes, OCD can appear in children, and early intervention makes a real difference to how well it is managed.
It varies from person to person, but with proper treatment many people see significant, lasting improvement.
Yes, it can be effectively treated through a combination of therapy, medication and lifestyle adjustments.
SSRIs and similar medications can meaningfully reduce symptom severity, especially when combined with therapy.
Yes, a healthy routine, stress management and relaxation techniques can complement traditional treatment.
Take the next step
Tell us what's happening, we'll suggest where to start
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.