One Million Steps for OCD Walk

This event was held on Wednesday 15 October 2025

OCD Walk logo with white text, outline of a footprint with a blue background

As part of international obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Awareness Week, the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy at the University of Newcastle, in partnership with the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the HMRI Brain Neuromodulation Research Program, is hosting a unique event to build understanding and reduce stigma around OCD.

This event is open to students, staff, and community members.

The Talk
From 10:30am to 11:00am, there will be an educational talk on what OCD actually is, breaking myths, and inspiring advocacy for those living with OCD.

The Walk
From 11:00am to 12:30pm, join us for a walk-through journey that teaches us a little bit about the experiences of people with OCD.  Participants will move through interactive stations representing different parts of the OCD cycle, each designed to build empathy and understanding. The walk takes less than 20 minutes to complete, and those who can’t attend the talk are still welcome to join at any time.

Event Information

  • Date:  This event was held on Wednesday 15 October 2025
  • Location: Life Science Theatre (LSTH), Callaghan Campus

Register: Click ‘JOIN TEAM’ in the link above and select “Individual Walker – FREE” to register and sign the waiver.

Note: This is a free event with an option to make a (non-tax deductible) donation to the International OCD Foundation.

You’re welcome to attend both the walk and the talks, or just one — whatever suits you best.

Getting here: Information regarding travelling to the University of Newcastle's Callaghan Campus can be found here.

Accessibility: The Life Science Theatre offers accessible seating. This seating is available to patrons who may be wheelchair or mobility aid users, those with low mobility or struggle with stairs, and their companions.

An accessible walking route is also available for the OCD walk portion. Please speak to someone at the sign-in desk prior to attempting the walk and they will assist you in that.