Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessions are thoughts images or impulses that pop into someone’s mind even when they don’t want them. Obsessions are typically upsetting, distressing or anxiety producing. They don’t fit with the persons personality or anything they actually want to happen. Common obsessions include the idea that one is contaminated or dirty or that one may cause undue harm to themselves or someone they love.

Compulsions are behaviors or mental acts a person does in order the avoid the feelings that go along with the obsessions. In order to meet criteria for OCD, obsessions and compulsions must take up a significant portion of time, cause distress, and interfere significantly in the person’s life. Common compulsions include repetitive behaviors, avoidance, reassurance seeking, special words images or prayers and neutralizing.

There are many forms of obsessions and many different types of compulsions. For more information visit www.iocdf.org or talk to an OCD Specialist.

Additional information can be found at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-when-unwanted-thoughts-take-over/index.shtml