Obsessive-compulsive Disorder Disease Information

OCD is a mental health disorder that is characterized by intrusive thoughts which provoke uneasiness, fear, or worry, and repetitive behaviors which are intended to reduce the associated anxiety. Symptoms may include excessive handwashing or cleaning, recurrent checking, extreme hoarding, preoccupation with sexual, violent, or religious thoughts, and nervous rituals such as opening and closing a door a certain number of times. Treatment of OCD usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps people to recognize and modify their thought patterns and behaviors that lead to the disorder. Medications used to treat OCD include SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and other drugs. Without treatment, OCD can have a major impact on a person’s life. It is estimated that 2.2 million adults in the United States have OCD.

1. Hoarding Disorder
2. Body Dysmorphic Disorder
3. Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
4. Excoriation Disorder (Skin-Picking Disorder)
5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
6. Sub-clinical Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
7. Pure Obsessional OCD (Pure-O)
8. Relationship OCD (ROCD)
9. Harm OCD
10. Symmetry Obsessions and Ordering Compulsions
11. Checking Compulsions
12. Counting Compulsions
13. Mental Contamination OCD
14. Religious/Scrupulosity OCD
15. Sexual Orientation OCD (HOCD)
16. Unacceptable Thoughts OCD

1. Excessive double-checking of things, such as locks, appliances, and switches
2. Repeatedly checking in on loved ones to make sure they’re safe
3. Counting, tapping, repeating certain words, or doing other senseless things to reduce anxiety
4. Spending a lot of time washing or cleaning
5. Accumulating “junk” such as old newspapers or empty containers
6. Ordering or arranging things in a particular, precise way
7. Avoiding situations that can trigger obsessive thoughts
8. Having severe doubts and not accepting anything without substantial proof
9. Needing to have physical objects in a particular order
10. Feeling the need to confess perceived “sins” or wrongdoings
11. Having intrusive, unwanted thoughts
12. Having recurring thoughts or images about violence, harm, or sex
13. Feeling the need to tell, ask, or confess repeatedly

Mental health specialists make diagnoses of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) based on criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be diagnosed with OCD, the person must have obsessions and/or compulsions that take up more than an hour a day and cause distress or disruption in daily life. Symptoms must not be better explained by another mental disorder or medical condition. Obsessions are recurrent, persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are intrusive and unwelcome, and can bring about unease or distress. Examples of obsessions include fear of contamination, fear of harm, and intrusive thoughts about sex or religion. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels compelled to do in response to an obsession. Examples of compulsions include excessive hand-washing, counting, checking, and organizing. In addition to the criteria listed above, a diagnosis of OCD may also consider the age of onset, length of symptoms, and the level of impairment in functioning.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition distinguished by recurrent thoughts that cause stress, by repeated activities designed to reduce the related tension, or by a blend of these obsessions and compulsions. Signs of OCD can disturb daily life and cause considerable distress. Typical obsessions include dread of contamination, uncertainties, and a necessity for evenness or precision. Typical compulsions include hand washing, counting, verifying, and tidying.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is generally treated with a combination of drugs and psychotherapy. The most popular prescriptions for OCD are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil, which help to raise serotonin levels in the brain, thereby diminishing symptoms of OCD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common form of psychotherapy for OCD. CBT helps people with OCD recognize and challenge the negative ideas and convictions that lead to their compulsive behaviors. It also helps them learn to control their reactions to their obsessive thoughts. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is another type of therapy that is often used to treat OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing the person to the thoughts, images, or situations that trigger their obsessions and then assisting them in learning to resist their compulsive behaviors.

1. Acknowledge your triggers: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by recurrent and unwelcome thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is important to recognize what sets off your OCD so you can better manage it.
2. Exercise mindfulness: Mindfulness is a type of meditation that can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. Practicing mindfulness can help you identify when you are having an obsessive thought or engaging in compulsive behavior.
3. Use relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can help you handle stress and anxiety related to OCD.
4. Seek professional help: If you are having difficulty managing your OCD symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help you develop coping skills and provide support.
5. Join a support group: Joining a support group can be a great way to connect with others who are dealing with similar issues. Support groups can provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to share your experiences and receive support.
6. Stay active: Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with OCD. It can also help you stay focused and distract you from obsessive thoughts.
7. Stay organized: Keeping your environment organized can help decrease the stress and anxiety connected to OCD. Make sure to keep your work and living spaces neat and free of clutter.
8. Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with OCD. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
9. Avoid drugs and alcohol: Drugs and alcohol can worsen symptoms of OCD. It is important to avoid these substances if you are dealing with OCD.
10. Take care of yourself: Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential when it comes to managing OCD. Make sure to eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and practice self-care.