Obsessive Compulsive Awareness Week has been observed since 2009. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a clinically recognized mental disorder consisting of obsessions (perceptions) and compulsions (behaviours). Obsessions are persistent, unwanted thoughts, impulses, and other mental processes that make the patient feel distressed or anxious. It is also intrusive, which means that the patient has no control over it, and it can appear at any time. Intrusive thoughts are frequent and disturbing. These thoughts force the patient to repeat certain behaviors to deal with intense emotions (usually fear or anxiety).
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Awareness Week 2022: What to Expect?
This event will be celebrated from 9-15 October 2022. It aims to spread awareness and inspire patients to seek help and combat the stigma related to this condition. According to the International OCD Foundation, there is no specific theme for this event. However, you can find a daily schedule at Their official website. The daily agendas are listed as follows:
October 9
struggle in silence Many patients are afraid to go out and share about their condition. Or they may believe that no one can help or understand their situation, at the expense of which they choose to suffer in silence. If you think you may have this condition, know that it is okay to communicate and that real help is available.
October 10
Diagnose: A diagnosis is the first step toward improving your mental health and healing any mental health condition. It may help you better understand your behaviors and feel comfortable where you can identify your condition. A diagnosis also paves the way to the next and most important step in a person’s mental health journey, which is treatment.
October 11
treatment or treatment: Choosing a treatment is one of the best investments anyone can make for themselves and their loved ones. Treatment with a licensed counselor can help you grow into a better version of yourself or better deal with existing symptoms.
Read more: Top 5 Affordable Online Therapy Platforms.
October 12
life after treatment: While treatment is an ongoing process, it is also life-changing for many. It can improve your relationships, make you healthier and happier, and significantly reduce symptoms.
October 13
Education and support for loved ones: As someone with a friend or family member who has OCD, learning about the condition can be overwhelming, shocking, and often confusing. But you must understand their position to properly support them through difficult experiences.
October 14
Building a new identity: This part of OCD awareness week involves creating a new identity through community participation. One of the best ways to do the same is to acquire new hobbies and learn new skills. Explore different things and take your lifestyle out of the routine, step by step.
October 15
Advocacy The last step, or perhaps a fresh start for those learning to deal with OCD, is the invitation. It refers to spreading awareness that helps others with this condition. Understanding can also help loved ones and others understand what patients are going through.
Read more: How to avoid the stigma of mental health treatment.
conclusion
OCD is a serious mental health condition that consists of intrusive thoughts that force the patient to repeat certain behaviors. You can participate in OCD awareness week and contribute to the mental health community by following events organized by the International OCD Foundation. You can access the same other exciting opportunities Via iocdf.org. While this condition is annoying, you may be reluctant to go for treatment. In this case, you can refer to Mental health treatment goals to understand the benefits of treatment.
participation in Your mental health for more information and products Aiming to help you improve your mental health.
Discussion about this post