Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions significantly interfere with daily life, causing distress and impacting work, relationships, and personal well-being.
Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harm, or making mistakes, while compulsions often involve excessive cleaning, checking, counting, or arranging things in a specific order. For example, a person may fear that their hands are contaminated and feel compelled to wash them repeatedly, even when there’s no real threat.
The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioral, and environmental factors. Abnormal levels of serotonin in the brain and differences in brain structure and function have also been observed in individuals with OCD.
OCD affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It often begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can worsen over time if left untreated. The good news is that OCD is manageable with the right treatment.
Treatment options include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly a type called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In severe cases, a combination of therapy and medication provides the best results.
Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can greatly improve quality of life. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of OCD, consulting a qualified mental health professional is the first step toward recovery.
