Ground Me: Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Awareness Week 13

OCD Awareness Week runs from 13 to 19 October 2025. It’s a global moment to share facts, challenge stereotypes, and support people living with obsessive–compulsive disorder.

What OCD is... and isn’t

OCD involves obsessions (intrusive, distressing thoughts, images, or urges) and compulsions (repetitive actions or mental rituals performed to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes). Effective help exists. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the first-line psychological treatment with a strong evidence base, and UK guidance also recognises CBT with ERP and medication options.

Common myths persist: OCD is not a preference for tidiness, and compulsions are not quirks, they’re time-consuming coping responses that can seriously affect daily life. During Awareness Week, many organisations host events, campaigns, and community activities to share accurate information and support.

Where dissociation fits

High anxiety and relentless compulsions can leave some people feeling detached from themselves or their surroundings (depersonalisation or derealisation). That’s dissociation a protective state that can appear alongside OCD, especially during spikes in distress. Treating the OCD (for example, with ERP) and adding grounding skills often reduces these dissociative moments.

Quick supports you can try this week

Name the present: say the date, where you are, and one small next step.
5–4–3–2–1 senses: five things you can see, four touch, three hear, two smell, one taste.
4–2–4 breathing: breathe in for four, hold for two, out for four.
Compulsion delay: when an urge hits, set a one-minute timer and try a grounding step first; then choose your response.
ERP with guidance: if you’re in treatment, use Awareness Week to refresh your exposure ladder with your clinician.

How to support someone with OCD

Use compassionate language: “I know this is hard. How can I help you stick to your plan”
Reduce reassurance loops: agree signals to pause reassurance and switch to grounding or values-based actions.
Share accurate resources: point to specialist organisations and evidence-based care.

Getting help in the UK

Samaritans – free, confidential listening 24/7: 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org
Shout – free 24/7 text support: text SHOUT to 85258.
NHS 111 – choose the mental health option or use 111 online for urgent help and next steps. In an emergency, call 999.

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