Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a highly stigmatized and misunderstood condition. Though often associated with cleaning and organization, this disorder is far more than a drive for perfectionism. OCD is based on repetitive and unwanted intrusive obsessions that lead to specific behaviors (compulsions).
Often patients with OCD recognize that their compulsion and behavior only provide temporary results. For many, this temporarily relief is better than dealing with the intrusive thoughts for long periods of time.
Although everyone has unwanted thoughts from time to time, individuals with OCD experience these thoughts to a degree that causes significant distress and anxiety. Those with OCD become quickly trapped in a spiral of compulsions that aim to ease the intrusive thoughts, which in turn fuel the compulsive behaviors. This could manifest as a fear of germs that causes one to wash their hands until they crack and bleed, or to mentally repeat phrases until the obsession is suppressed. Regardless of the manifestation, compulsions are rarely rooted in reality and only provide short-term relief for the obsessive thoughts.
Recognizing the Signs of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder OCD symptoms vary from person to person, but often include:
