Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has been misunderstood for far too long, and it's about time society actually caught up and understood what OCD is. It's no quirk, and it's certainly not just about keeping things neat. OCD is a daily battle with your mind and incredibly different to what the majority of the world believe it to be. 

My name's Jack and I've dealt with OCD for over 15 years. I remember being 14 years old and terrified of my own thoughts and what seemed to be happening within my brain. I hadn't experienced anything like this before and I thought I was losing my mind. What I wish I knew at the time, was that I was dealing with something brutal - OCD. I wasn't crazy, I was just incredibly anxious and needed help. 

The World Health Organisation class OCD as within the Top 10 Most Disabling Conditions in the world.. yet, society still thinks everyone's a "little OCD" because they like something a particular way or organised etc. (I'm sure you've heard it before).

OCD is cruel, complex and deep rooted in fear and a need for complete and utter certainty. To bring this to life, it looks like endless thought loops, physical / mental compulsions and an inability to trust your own mind. 

The lack of true awareness around this disorder and the consistent misuse of the word "OCD" by many creates genuine damage to those who silently suffer. They sit, terrified of what they're going through, yet fear opening up, as they believe they'll be misunderstood or judged. 

I say.. enough is enough. I'm calling for a generational change in the way OCD is perceived across the world. First things first, I want to see the Government of my own country stand up and do what's right and invest genuine efforts into helping those with this debilitating disorder. 

I'm demanding that OCD education is a mandatory requirement across all schools and workplaces in the UK. If we can lead the way, I would love to see others follow. 

My aim, to lead the change that 14 year old me so desperately needed. 

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