Cracks in the pavement and OCD. What's the connection?

One million people in the U.K. are diagnosed with OCD.

This is according to a figure recently quoted on an eposide of Lorraine.

Given that so many sufferers go undiagnosed due to wanting to keep it private, my guess is that this figure could be even higher.

Opening up to share experiences of OCD can be extremely tough.

That's why it is so encouraging when celebrities like Shakira Akabusi open up and share their experience of OCD.

In Shakira's case, the OCD theme was tapping and counting.

And it developed after giving birth to her child.

It became so debilitating that everyday things like walking to work took forever.

And a holiday abroad got cancelled last minute.

The reason.

Cracks in the pavement.

OCD convinced her to repeatedly count and tap when confronted by cracks in the pavement.

This resulted in a seven-minute walk to work turning into 3 hours.

And a family holiday getting cancelled when she felt unable to navigate her way over the cracks in the pavement to get to the checkout desk.

There were too many cracks to handle.

It sounds crazy.

But I can totally relate, given that OCD wrecked so many of our holidays, too.

So, how did Shakira eventually overcome OCD to lead a normal life again?

Some examples of things that helped free her of OCD were:

• Anti-anxiety hypnotherapy sessions at work.
• Getting an official diagnosis and support.
• Exercise.

Ironically, I cover an example of an OCD counting theme in my second children's book, Trixie the Treat Monster.

In the story, OCD convinces his new victim, Leo, to repeatedly count before taking penalty shots.

Thankfully, Trixie the Treat Monster, is on hand to take on Hank in his new game.

She teaches Leo how to resist counting by replacing intrusive thoughts with happier ones instead.

She also shares the benefits of introducing rewards into therapy.

If you'd like to purchase a copy of my Trixie the Treat Monster book for:

• Your child.
• Your local school.
• Your library.

I will personally sign copies purchased directly from me and will also include a novelty Trixie and Hank bookmark.

I also donate 50% of what I make to CAMHS (child and adolescent mental health services).

Click on the link below for more details.

Trixie the Treat Monster.