Recording // Mental Health Recovery Webinar // OCD - Beyond the Stereotypes - Webinar

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood and reduced to clichés about being ‘neat’ or ‘fussy’. In reality, OCD is a complex mental health condition experienced in many different ways. For some, it’s linked to trauma and can involve intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviours and overwhelming anxiety.

In this 60-minute community webinar in recognition of OCD Awareness Week (12–18 October 2025), Anu Dhingra, Manager – Peer Led Programs, SANE Australia, will share his lived experience with OCD, how this can relate to trauma, and the stereotypes attached to OCD. This webinar is a safe and welcoming space where you will have the opportunity to hear valuable insights about:

• Common misconceptions about OCD.
• The connection between OCD, anxiety and experiences of trauma.
• Realistic support and strategies for people who have or support someone with OCD.

About Anu

Anu Dhingra is the Manager of Peer Led Programs. Anu is a Lived Experience Leader and has been working in the Mental Health not-for-profit sector for over 8 years. At SANE, he currently oversees the Lived Experience and Diversity & Inclusion portfolios. His own lived experience of mental ill-health, OCD, Childhood trauma, Suicidality and recovery has led him to develop a passion for improving mental health service outcomes, be a voice and advocate for those that cannot speak on their own behalf. Anu is also on the Committee of Management at the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council (VMIAC), the Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic); and volunteers his time as a Crisis Support worker at Lifeline.

Prior to joining SANE, Anu has worked at Lifeline Australia as a Trainer, Paid Crisis Support Worker and Centralised In-shift Supervisor, part of the National Operations Team supporting Lifeline Centre's across the nation. He was also a member of the Self-Stigma Technical Advisory Group, at the National Mental Health Commission, responsible for informing the development of the National Stigma and Discrimination Reduction Strategy.

Watch the recording here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb-FN8t0JtM