Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a lifelong condition where unreasonable thoughts and fears, or obsessions, lead a person to do repetitive behaviors, or compulsions. A person with OCD may or may not realize that their obsessions are unreasonable. A primary symptom of OCD is the presence of obsessions, which are repeated, persistent and unwanted urges that cause distress or anxiety. OCD obsessions often center on themes, such as fear of contamination, having things orderly/symmetric, or thoughts regarding harming oneself or others. Another symptom is the presence of compulsions, which are repetitive behavior that a person with OCD feels like they have to perform. Completing these repetitive behaviors are meant to prevent or reduce anxiety and prevent something bad from happening. Compulsions also follow themes like washing and cleaning, counting, checking, demanding reassurances and following a routine. Usually OCD is made up of both obsessions and compulsions, but it’s possible to only experience one. The general criteria to diagnose OCD is the person has obsessions and/or compulsions and these obsessions/compulsions are time-consuming and interfere with daily life. OCD has no cure, but symptoms can be controlled using exposure therapy and medication.