Catherine...

Hi, I’m Catherine. I’m a teacher living in London with my son and husband. I’ve lived with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder since childhood. The very difficult condition that often involves devastating obsessions and the need to perform endless rituals as a way of cancelling the obsessions out.

OCD is the last condition that it is seemingly ok by societies standards to joke about and refer to in incorrect terms. This is so dangerous for those suffering as it leads to misconception and can stop people getting the help they desperately need. I talk about my experiences with OCD at every opportunity in the hope that it spreads awareness and helps fellow sufferers know that they are not alone. The theme of my condition has at times made it very difficult to talk about so I also want share my story in the hope it helps others know its ok to open up to. Mental health advocates and those opening up about their stories are amongst the bravest, kindest, and most compassionate people I’ve ever come across. I feel honoured to be in their company everyday 😊

I created a website called Taming Olivia which charts my progress, shares recovery ideas, and is aimed at spreading hope and awareness. If you’d like to check it out you can find here: www.tamingolivia.com And these are my pages on: Twitter: @TamingOlivia, Facebook: @tamingoliviaOCD and Instagram: ocdblog_tamingolivia