When your own mind turns against you: Living with intrusive OCD

A young woman named Molly describes living with intrusive OCD, which began with sudden intrusive thoughts that led her to wrongly fear she was a paedophile. She stayed silent for years until a social media video suggested the experience could be a lesser-known symptom of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. She now shares her story online, hoping others with the same thoughts will feel less alone. The video is published by BBC News, which notes where viewers can find help and support if they are feeling distress.

• Sudden intrusive thoughts and a false fear about the self
• Years of silence before recognising a lesser-known OCD symptom
• Sharing the experience to reassure others
• Source: BBC News; support details available at bbc.co.uk/actionline

The onset of sudden, intrusive thoughts led a young woman to falsely fear she was a paedophile. For years, Molly stayed silent until a social media video suggested it could be a lesser-known symptom of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Molly has gone from silence to sharing her OCD story online in the hope that others experiencing the same thoughts don't feel alone. If you are suffering distress or despair, details of help and support are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.