Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric disorder most commonly characterized by a subject's obsessive, distressing, intrusive thoughts and related compulsions (tasks or "rituals") which attempt to neutralize the obsessions.

Symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - OCD

Obsessions

• Repetitive (and unwanted) ideas, thoughts and impulses.
• Examples: fear that self or loved ones will be harmed; fear of contamination; a need to do things perfectly/correctly.
• The obsessions cause much anxiety and are difficult to stop.
• Some obsessions may focus on violence, sex or illness.

Compulsions

• Repetitive behaviors performed by most people with OCD as a result of their obsessions.
• Examples: repetitive washing (i.e. hand washing), checking (i.e. stopping the car to see if someone has been hit), counting, hoarding, rearranging objects, repeating phrases mentally, list making.
• Many people with OCD repeat behaviors in order to keep harm from happening to themselves and loved ones.
• Some have rituals -- either strict or changing. Rituals relieve anxiety but only temporarily.

Most people with OCD know that the obsessions and compusions are not realistic. However, at times, they are unsure about whether or not the behavior is unrealistic. Most attempt to stop the behaviors and thoughts, and most try to hide it from other people. OCD is usually chronic, although symptoms may come and go over time. If severe, OCD can be disabling. A person with severe OCD may not be able to function at work, school, home, etc.

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