Do you engage in repetitive behaviours or rituals everyday to reduce your anxiety?
Do you avoid certain situations to prevent something bad from happening?
It’s okay if you’re unsure whether you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Maybe you have some of these tendencies, or possibly you’re just a perfectionist?
It is not uncommon for people to loosely refer to themselves as “being OCD” (e.g., when referring to the need to have a clean house) and confuse having high standards (i.e., being perfectionistic) with having OCD. With 1.9% of the Australian population (aged 16-85 years) having had OCD (2007 National Survey of Mental Health & Wellbeing), it’s no surprise the disorder is becoming more common, however not everyone who “thinks” they have OCD actually would be diagnosed by a professional.
Checklist to determine if you have OCD Tendencies
If you’ve checked more than half of the above, what should you do?
- Begin to monitor the types of obsessions and compulsions that you experience, in what types of situations you experience them or feel distressed, and what you fear will happen if you do not engage in your compulsions. Also note what types of situations you avoid as a result of your obsessions or compulsions.
- Notice instances in which you are able to resist engaging in compulsions. This suggests that you have some power over the OCD!
- Approach someone for support. e.g. a family member, friend or your GP
Once you have tried these tips, engaging with an expert Psychologist allows you to develop a complete understanding of what’s happening and learn skills to better manage your OCD so that it does not control you! Get in touch with us today.
We believe wise minds make wise decisions, so let us help you. Contact us today.
