Talk OCD - Raising Awareness. Breaking Stigma. Starting Conversations.

Welcome to Talk OCD

Welcome to Talk OCD, a youth-led initiative under the HOSA Mental Health Promotion program. Our goal is to educate the public about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and foster understanding through compassion, factual information, and open dialogue. We strive to create a community where individuals feel informed, supported, and empowered to discuss mental health without judgment.

About Us

Who We Are

We are a group of students from Bishop P. F. Reding Catholic Secondary School dedicated to promoting mental health awareness. As members of our school's HOSA chapter, we focus on providing reliable, evidence-based information and encouraging open discussions about OCD among youth and the broader community.

Emma Amos

Bhakti Kumar

Kanika Kamalakannan

Kosi Uboma

Maira Hammad

Why We Chose OCD

OCD is frequently misunderstood, often misrepresented in media and casual conversation. Misconceptions can create barriers to seeking help and support, especially for young people. We chose to focus on OCD to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and highlight the real impact this disorder can have on youth.

Our Mission

To educate the public with accurate and accessible information about OCD
To reduce stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disorder
To support youth mental health conversations in schools and communities
To empower individuals to understand OCD beyond stereotypes

What Is OCD?

What OCD Actually Is

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions:

Obsessions: Recurrent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress.
Compulsions: Repetitive behaviours or mental acts performed in response to obsessions, often aimed at reducing anxiety.

OCD can interfere with daily functioning, making school, work, and relationships challenging.

Common Types of OCD

Contamination OCD: Fear of germs or dirt, leading to excessive cleaning or avoidance.
Checking OCD: Repeatedly verifying actions (e.g., locks, appliances) to prevent imagined harm.
Harm OCD: Intrusive fears of causing harm to oneself or others.
Symmetry/Ordering OCD: Strong need for objects or tasks to be perfectly aligned or symmetrical.
Relationship OCD: Obsessive doubts or concerns about romantic or interpersonal relationships.
Moral/Scrupulosity OCD: Intrusive thoughts related to morality, religion, or ethics, often causing guilt or shame.

Who Can Have OCD?

OCD can affect anyone—children, adolescents, and adults—and is not determined by personality, habits, or preferences. It is a legitimate mental health condition that requires understanding and, in many cases, professional support.

The Reality of Living With OCD

Emotional Impact

OCD can create significant emotional strain, including:

Anxiety
Stress
Guilt
Fear
Exhaustion

Daily Challenges

Individuals with OCD often face practical difficulties in their daily lives, such as:

Spending excessive time on compulsions
Difficulty focusing in school or work
Struggling with social relationships
Feeling misunderstood by peers, family, or teachers

The OCD Cycle

OCD operates as a continuous cycle:

Obsessive Thought

→

Anxiety

→

Compulsion

→

Temporary Relief

→

Obsessive Thought Again

Ending the Stigma

Why Stigma Matters

Misusing the term "OCD" in casual conversation can lead to misunderstanding and minimize the struggles of those living with the disorder. Stereotypes and jokes may discourage individuals from seeking help or talking openly about their experiences.

Language Matters

Avoid:

"I'm so OCD."

→

Instead:

"I prefer things to be organized."

Avoid:

"Just stop thinking about it."

→

Instead:

"I'm here if you want to talk."

How We Can Create Change

Use respectful and informed language
Listen to real experiences of individuals with OCD
Stay educated about mental health
Choose words intentionally to promote understanding and empathy

Resources & Support

Emergency Disclaimer

This website is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care. If you or someone you know is in crisis, seek immediate help.

Professional Help Resources

If you or someone you know is seeking support for OCD or related mental health concerns, the following professional resources are available:

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

General Inquiries: 416-535-8501

CAMH provides evidence-based information on OCD, treatment options, and clinical services.

Anxiety Canada

Anxiety Canada offers educational materials and resources on CBT and ERP.
(Non-crisis organization; no direct phone line for emergencies.)

OCD Canada

Provides national support resources, educational materials, and guidance on locating specialized OCD treatment in Canada.

Kids Help Phone

24/7 professional support for youth

Call: 1-800-668-6868
Text: CONNECT to 686868

Offers confidential counseling and crisis support for children and teens.

Hope for Wellness Helpline

For Indigenous Peoples in Canada

Call: 1-855-242-3310 (24/7)

Provides culturally appropriate mental health support.

Local Crisis Lines & Clinics

Many regions have dedicated youth mental health services, walk-in clinics, and crisis hotlines.
Example: Distress Centres of Greater Toronto – 416-408-4357 (HELP) (24/7).

Support for Families

Communicate with empathy and understanding
Recognize red flags for when professional support is needed
Offer patience and encouragement rather than pressure