The World Wide Web comprises a wealth of information on many subjects, including mental health issues. This allows web users to learn more about OCD and also to seek support. However, anyone can have a web page, and so it’s important to recognize that some sites offering information are not necessarily reliable.
It is also important to consider the audience the site was written for, as different countries may have different legislation and diagnostic tools regarding mental disorder. For example, if someone is looking for details of OCD support groups in the United States, a website written for an Australian audience is unlikely to be useful.
Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA)
The ADAA is a national non-profit organization geared to improving research, treatment and education on anxiety disorders. Their website includes:
- Factsheets on OCD, including information for caregivers.
- A self-test for OCD.
- A resource for finding support groups (in the US).
- A resource for finding a therapist (in the US).
Obsessive Compulsive Foundation (OCF)
The OCF is an international non-profit organization aimed at educating people about OCD, providing support to individuals affected by OCD and supporting relevant research. Their website includes:
- Factsheets on OCD, available in several languages.
- A resource for finding support groups anywhere in the world.
- An online support forum (hosted on Yahoo Health Groups).
- A resource for finding a treatment provider (in the US).
- Information on taking part in OCD research (in the US, and through online surveys).
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)
The AACAP are a national non-profit medical organization aimed at promoting the treatment and quality of life of children, adolescents and caregivers affected by mental disorder. Their website includes:
- Facts for families – a section including a number of articles on OCD in children and adolescents, available in several languages.
- Information on the role of child and adolescent psychiatrists.
- A resource for seeking a child and adolescent psychiatrist (in the US).
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
NIMH are a scientific organization committed to research into mental disorders. Their website includes:
- In-depth articles on OCD (added as research becomes available).
- Information on current research into OCD and how to participate (in the US).
For access to the above mentioned sources and many other useful organizations, visit the AACAP links page. People experiencing symptoms of OCD should seek advice from a qualified health practitioner.
Claims and opinions expressed on external websites do not necessarily reflect those of the author.
Sources
Anxiety Disorders Association of America website, accessed: August 30th 2008, no author specified.
Obsessive Compulsive Foundation website, accessed: August 30th 2008, no author specified.
American Academic of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry website, accessed: August 30th 2008, no author specified.
National Institute of Mental Health website, accessed: August 30th 2008, no author specified.
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