Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD can be triggered by biological factors, personality traits, or stressful events. It often involves obsessive thoughts and compulsions as a coping mechanism.

Symptoms

Repetitive, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that cause distress
Repeated behaviours (compulsions) to relieve anxiety, like washing hands or checking things
Interference with daily life due to obsessions and compulsions

Coping Strategies

Exposure Response Prevention: Gradually confronting fears without performing compulsive actions can reduce anxiety.
Mindfulness: Practising mindfulness can help manage obsessive thoughts.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Work on reframing thoughts to lessen their impact.

Where to Find Help

OCD Specialists: Therapists with experience in OCD treatment can offer specific coping strategies.
Support Communities: Joining groups where you can share experiences and learn from others can be beneficial.
Helplines: Organisations like OCD-UK provide information and support.

Get help

Mind UK

Mind provides advice and support to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Services include:

Information and advice on mental health issues.
Support groups and counselling options.
Tools for managing mental health and well-being.

Visit their website: www.mind.org.uk
Or call their helpline: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm).

Local Councils in London:

Local councils offer support services for housing, employment, and referrals:

Camden: camden.gov.uk
Islington: islington.gov.uk
Haringey: haringey.gov.uk
Barnet: barnet.gov.uk
Enfield: enfield.gov.uk

For additional help, contact your local mental health crisis line by calling 111 or visiting 111 online.

London Mental Health Trusts:

Find mental health support from NHS services across London:

Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust – Visit Website
Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
East London NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) – Visit Website
South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust – Visit Website
Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
West London NHS Trust – Visit Website

Additional Resources:

Childline – 0800 1111 (Support for young people under 19)
Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7 emotional support)
Hopeline (Papyrus) – 0800 068 4141 (Suicide prevention helpline)
NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 (Child safety concerns)
Self Harm UK – www.selfharmuk.org (Support for self-harm)
Young Minds – www.youngminds.org.uk (Mental health support)
Kooth – www.kooth.com (Anonymous well-being support)
Papyrus – www.papyrus.org (Help for suicidal thoughts)