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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
- 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.
- 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
compulsions 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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