PAGE CONTENTS
(1) An overview of OCD
(2) Authoritative online information
(3) Recommended books
(4) Online therapy programs
(5) Intrusive unwanted thoughts
(6) Related disorders
(7) Resources for professionals
(1) An overview of OCD
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, OCD is a "chronic and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over. People with OCD may have symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both. These symptoms can interfere with all aspects of life, such as work, school, and personal relationships. Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person with OCD feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought."
Common obsessions include: fears of contamination; fears of causing harm by accident or on purpose; symmetry and exactness; and obsessions with sexual or religious themes.
Common compulsions include: washing or cleaning; checking; repeating; ordering and arranging; and mental rituals.
(2) Authoritative online information
Anxiety Disorders Association of America - OCD
National Institute of Mental Health - OCD
OCD Online (Steven Phillipson, PhD)
Mindfulness-Based CBT for OCD and Anxiety (from the OCD Center of Los Angeles)
Follow the link above for a list of recommended books for OCD.
(4) Online therapy programs
OCD Challenge: This is an evidence-based online interactive self-help program.
NOCD: https://www.treatmyocd.com
(5) Intrusive unwanted thoughts
One type of OCD is in which people have repetitive thoughts that are intrusive, unwanted, and distressing. A person may have thoughts they regard as disturbing or immoral, and experience guilt and shame. They may have recurrent fears that they may suddenly act in a way that goes against their own wishes and causes harm to themselves or others. They may have doubts about whether they have already caused harm or be plagued by questions that cannot be answered with certainty. The link above leads to resources regarding this type of OCD.
(6) Related disorders