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How is OCD formally diagnosed by clinicians?

In Australia, OCD is formally diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist using structured assessments and criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The process usually involves:
  • Identifying obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts) and/or compulsions (repetitive behaviours)
  • Confirming that symptoms are time-consuming (over one hour per day) or cause significant distress
  • Ensuring symptoms are not caused by another medical condition, substance, or mental health disorder
  • Assessing the impact on work, relationships, and daily life 
Clinicians may also use standardised tools like the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) to measure symptom severity. 

If you need a formal OCD diagnosis for treatment or NDIS access, contact us now.