Many people feel compelled to do certain things and find it very difficult not to do them. Often these things have to follow set patterns such as always having to wash your hands, counting steps or checking over and over that the door is locked. Mild examples may be superstitions such as not stepping on cracks on the pavement or throwing salt over your shoulder.

Being obsessed by a certain thought or action becomes a problem when it takes control over other day to day activities and prevents you from doing them.

• Compulsive behavoiur
• Addiction

For more detailed information about obsessional thinking try:

• Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (MIND)
• About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

For local sources of help:

• LampDirect
• Samaritans