28/07/2025
OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is a common term and often mention is made of being a “little OCD” . Some people will have mild symptoms particularly in times of stress,but this term can minimise the devastating impact of having the disorder and severe symptoms. It’s is estimated that. 750,000 people in the UK are affected, of which circa 500,000 experience a level of intrusive thoughts ( obsessions) leading to severe anxiety and behaviours (obsessions) sometimes for hours a day. Any relief by performing the compulsions are temporary and can significantly affect their normal physical or mental functions, which is the definition of a disorder.
The principal treatment is usually specialise CBT and can be accessed via the GP. There is also an NHS Helpline 0300 636 5478. In addition there are charities such as OCD UK which is run by those with a lived experience of OCD. They also have a national conference on 8 November 2025 in Nottingham and more details can be found at www.ocduk.org.
If you or someone close to you is suffering from OCD please do reach out for support . Reigate Community Counselling Centre does not specialise in treating OCD but can help with anxiety and distress and offers more affordable counselling to adults . More information can be found at www.reigate-counselling.co.uk.
Reigate Community Counselling Centre: affordable and accessible counsellor and therapist services for Reigate, Redhill and Dorking.