Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition in which a person experiences frequent unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions). The obsessions experienced by someone with OCD are frequent, troubling, irrational, and difficult to get rid of. Common obsessions include:

Excessive concerns with cleanliness

Fears of acting out violent impulses toward others, particularly loved ones

Repulsive sexual or blasphemous thoughts

Excessive concerns with order, arrangement, and symmetry

Inability to discard possessions that are no longer useful

In order to diminish the anxiety created by these obsessions, those with OCD will often engage in behaviors they believe will be helpful to them. Common compulsions include:

Repeatedly washing and cleaning

Repetitive actions: checking, counting, arranging

Hoarding useless or unnecessary possessions

Mental rituals: counting, prayer, repeated words and phrases

OCD FAQ

How common is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

It is estimated that 1 in 50 Americans will experience OCD at some point in their lives. This adds up to roughly 5.8 million Americans or 2% of the U.S. population.

Who is more likely to get OCD-men or women?

OCD affects men and women in equal numbers.

What are some common symptoms of OCD?

OCD is diagnosed when obsessions or compulsions occur for more than 1 hour a day, become very upsetting for the patient, and disrupt the patient's daily routine.

What causes OCD?

The exact cause of OCD is unknown, although research has indicated that a chemical imbalance in the brain is the most likely contributing factor.

When does OCD first occur?

OCD typically begins in childhood or adolescence. Approximately 1/3 of all adult OCD cases have begun in childhood.

What are some effective treatments for OCD?

Several effective methods of treatment for those who have OCD include a combination of behavioral therapy with medication. One particularly common type of behavioral therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in which the patient is exposed to a feared object or situation, and is discouraged or prevented from carrying out their compulsive behaviors. It is believed that frequent exposure to the object or situation that causes fear will result in lowered feelings of anxiety from the patient and a greater resistance to their compulsive urges.

Medications have also proven helpful in the treatment of OCD.