Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Awareness Training Course

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects how people think, feel, and behave. It is often misunderstood, with common misconceptions minimising its seriousness. OCD involves unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that can cause significant distress and impact daily life.

This free OCD course explores the nature of OCD, how it is diagnosed, and the support and treatments available. You’ll learn how OCD affects both adults and young people, the importance of reducing stigma, and how to create supportive environments at home, school, and work.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

OCD is a hidden condition that affects people across all ages and backgrounds. Without proper understanding, individuals may be misjudged or unable to access the right help. This course equips learners with the awareness, strategies, and confidence to recognise OCD and support those living with it.

Here’s why this course is for you:

• Challenge misconceptions: Understand what OCD really is and why it’s more than “liking things tidy.”
• Recognise symptoms: Learn to identify intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.
• Understand diagnosis: Explore how OCD is identified in children, adolescents, and adults, including the role of CAMHS.
• Explore treatment options: Discover evidence-based therapies such as CBT and ERP, alongside medication approaches.
• Support individuals: Learn how to create safe, empathetic environments and involve families and communities in support.
• Address co-occurring conditions: Understand how anxiety, depression, and other conditions can complicate OCD.
• Access resources: Know where and how to refer individuals for professional help.
• Workplace relevance: Learn how reasonable adjustments and stigma reduction can improve support at work.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define OCD and explain common misconceptions about the condition.
• Describe the prevalence and impact of OCD on individuals and society.
• Recognise risk factors, including genetics and environmental triggers.
• Identify obsessions and compulsions, and understand their impact on daily functioning.
• Explain diagnostic criteria and how OCD is assessed across different age groups.
• Outline evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ERP, and SSRIs.
• Support individuals with empathy, family involvement, and community resources.
• Recognise challenges faced by children and young people with OCD.
• Identify and manage co-occurring conditions such as anxiety and depression.
• Access NHS and private resources, and understand the referral process.
• Provide coping strategies and promote self-help for mild-to-moderate OCD.
• Apply workplace adjustments and strategies to reduce stigma.

Target Audience

This course is suitable for:

• Health and social care workers supporting individuals with OCD.
• Carers, support workers, and families looking to understand and help loved ones.
• Teachers and education professionals supporting students with OCD.
• Employers, HR staff, and managers aiming to promote inclusion and mental health awareness.
• Students and learners preparing for roles in care, education, or mental health services.

FAQ

What does the course cover?
It covers OCD awareness, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, support strategies, workplace adjustments, and resources.

Can I apply what I learn straight away?
Yes. The course provides practical skills and approaches for supporting individuals and creating inclusive environments.

How long will it take?
The course is self-paced and usually takes 1 hour to complete.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. A certificate is awarded upon completion.

Is the course relevant to UK practice?
Yes. The course aligns with UK mental health services, including CAMHS and NHS referral pathways.

Is this course CPD accredited?
Not yet, but CPD accreditation is being developed.

OCD is often misunderstood, but with the right awareness and support, individuals can manage symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. This course equips you to recognise OCD, understand treatment options, and support individuals with empathy and confidence.

Join today and take the first step in raising OCD awareness in health, education, and workplace settings.