“OCD is a disorder that causes intrusive, disturbing thoughts… thoughts that go completely against a person’s values. That’s what makes them so distressing,” — Fionnula McLiam, OCD Ireland
On a recent episode of Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, host John Comiskey spoke with Fionnula McLiam, clinical advisor with OCD Ireland, about obsessive compulsive disorder and related conditions. The conversation shed light on one of the most misunderstood mental health disorders, exploring its impact, myths, and the vital support available through OCD Ireland.
What is OCD?
OCD—short for obsessive compulsive disorder—affects an estimated 1–2% of the population, or roughly one in every 75 people. Despite being relatively common, it often goes unrecognised for years.
“OCD is a disorder that causes intrusive, disturbing thoughts,” Fionnula explained. “These thoughts go completely against a person’s values—about violence, sex, danger, religion—and because they feel so alien, people wrongly believe they reflect their true selves. That’s what makes them so distressing.”
Intrusive thoughts lead to obsessions (disturbing doubts or fears) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours or mental rituals aimed at easing anxiety). These compulsions can range from checking locks and switches dozens of times to repeating phrases, avoiding cracks on the pavement, or endlessly seeking reassurance.
Shame and misunderstanding mean that people with OCD often struggle in silence. Research suggests it can take up to 17 years before someone receives a diagnosis.
The Wider OCD Spectrum
While intrusive thoughts and compulsions are at the core of OCD, related conditions also exist:
- Trichotillomania (TTM) – a hair-pulling disorder that can leave people with bald patches, often hidden with hairstyles or explained away as alopecia.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) – a distressing belief that one’s body or a specific feature is grotesque or abnormal, even when it appears completely normal to others.
- Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs) – such as skin picking or nail biting, which can cause both physical and emotional harm.
“These conditions are highly anxiety-driven,” Fionnula McLiam noted. “They’re not quirks or habits—they’re compulsions that people feel powerless to resist.”
Treatment and Support
The recommended treatment for OCD and related conditions is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), specifically exposure and response prevention. But as Fionnula cautioned, therapy in Ireland is not yet fully regulated. “Anyone can call themselves a CBT therapist, so it’s vital to ensure they are accredited with a professional body like CBT Ireland or BABCP.”
Treatment can be challenging, but it is effective. “A key part is recognising that thoughts—even horrible ones—are just thoughts. They don’t define who you are.”
OCD Ireland: Building Community
Founded in the 1990s, OCD Ireland provides a lifeline for people living with OCD and their families. Services include:
- Support Groups – for people with OCD, for those with trichotillomania, and for friends and family. These run both online and in-person.
- Resources & Information – reliable guidance on OCD, treatment options, and coping strategies.
- Community Events – opportunities for connection, such as walks, coffee meetups, and awareness days.
Fionnula McLiam shared how powerful these gatherings can be: “It’s so wonderful for people with OCD to get together and realise they’re not alone. Everyone’s experience is unique, but the shared understanding is hugely comforting.”
A Message of Hope
For anyone newly diagnosed with OCD, Fenola’s advice is clear:
- Seek professional help – start with your GP, who can refer you for psychiatric or CBT services.
- Connect with support groups – whether online or in-person, peer support makes the journey easier.
- Remember you’re not alone – one in 75 people live with OCD; chances are you already know someone affected.
“OCD is a tough disorder to live with,” Fionnula concluded. “But help is available—and with the right support, people can and do live fulfilling lives.”
👉 To learn more, find resources, or join a support group, visit www.ocdireland.org.
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on Phoenix 92.5FM, with repeats on Monday at 3PM and Tuesday at 7AM & 3PM. Podcast available after each show on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk