Irish Woman Shares Struggles with OCD to Raise Awareness and Help Others

In a candid revelation, Lucy Shiel, a 25-year-old from Kilkenny, Ireland, has opened up about her long battle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which began unexpectedly when she was just 19 years old. Lucy's journey highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and understanding of mental health conditions in Ireland, where misconceptions and stigma often overshadow the reality faced by those living with these disorders.

Lucy described her experience as being engulfed by intrusive thoughts that made her question her character and morality. "I was lying in bed after a night out when I first felt my mind spiraling with dark thoughts that led me to believe I was a 'bad person,'" she stated in an interview with The Irish Sun published on July 6, 2025. "It was a terrifying experience that I struggled to articulate to therapists, who often dismissed my feelings as mere anxiety."

Despite her efforts to seek help, Lucy spent four years grappling with symptoms of OCD before finally identifying her condition through online research. "It was only after discovering a Reddit page discussing OCD that I realized my experiences were consistent with the disorder," she explained. Following her self-diagnosis, she consulted her general practitioner, who referred her for psychiatric evaluation, leading to a formal diagnosis of OCD.

OCD is a chronic condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing the anxiety these thoughts provoke. According to the World Health Organization, OCD ranks among the top ten most disabling illnesses globally in terms of lost productivity and diminished quality of life. Dr. Emily Carter, a clinical psychologist at Trinity College Dublin, highlighted the severity of OCD, stating, "Many individuals with OCD feel trapped in a cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which can severely impact their daily lives."

In a bid to combat the stigma surrounding OCD, Lucy launched an Instagram page titled "OCDiaries," where she shares her experiences and educates others about the disorder. "I wanted to create a platform where people could learn about OCD and understand that they are not alone in their struggles," she remarked. Since its inception, the page has garnered significant attention, connecting Lucy with hundreds of individuals who have expressed gratitude for her insights and support.

Despite being diagnosed and receiving treatment, Lucy admits that managing OCD remains a daily challenge. "Living with OCD is a constant battle between your conscious and subconscious mind. You’re often plagued by racing thoughts that can be incredibly distressing," she shared. The compulsions, she added, can manifest in various forms, from repetitive checking behaviors to mental rituals aimed at countering intrusive thoughts.

The media's portrayal of OCD often simplifies the disorder, presenting it as a quirky personality trait rather than a debilitating mental health condition. Lucy emphasized the importance of accurate representation, stating, "OCD is frequently misrepresented in films and television as a comedic quirk, rather than the serious and often debilitating disorder it truly is."

Brendan Courtney, a well-known presenter in Ireland, also shared his experiences with OCD, revealing that he has battled the condition since childhood. Brendan discussed how stress can exacerbate OCD symptoms, stating, "The intrusive thoughts can become overwhelming, and it’s often difficult to rationalize them. I’ve learned to cope through therapy and support."

Both Lucy and Brendan's stories highlight the critical need for mental health resources and support systems in Ireland. According to the Health Service Executive (HSE), approximately 156,000 people in Ireland live with OCD, yet many remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a psychiatrist at University College Dublin, emphasized, "Increased public awareness and education about OCD are vital in helping individuals seek the help they need without fear of judgment."

Looking ahead, Lucy remains hopeful for the future. "Recovery is possible, even if it feels overwhelming at times. It’s important for people to know that they can overcome the challenges of OCD with the right support and treatment," she stated. As she continues her advocacy work, Lucy aims to shine a light on the realities of living with OCD and foster a more supportive environment for those affected by mental health disorders.

In conclusion, the experiences shared by Lucy Shiel and Brendan Courtney serve as poignant reminders of the struggles many individuals face with OCD. Their stories underscore the importance of empathy, understanding, and education in addressing mental health issues and advocating for those who may feel isolated in their battles. As awareness grows, so does the potential for change, paving the way for a more informed and compassionate society.