Anxiety

OCD

Also known as Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Unwanted intrusive thoughts that spike distress, plus compulsions — mental or physical — done to neutralise them.

Affects about 1–2% of people; average delay to correct diagnosis is still around a decade.

What often comes first

Noticing several of these over weeks is a reason to talk to someone — not a diagnosis.

Intrusive thoughts that feel deeply out of character and horrifying
Rituals that must be done 'properly' or repeated
Long mental reviewing, checking or reassurance-seeking
Routine tasks taking far longer than they should
Avoiding triggers: knives, contamination, certain words or numbers

This page is educational and cannot diagnose you. If any of it feels close to home, bring it to a GP, doctor or therapist — and if you're in crisis, see urgent help.