Obsessive

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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over.

Pronunciation

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: /əbˈsɛsɪv kəmˈpʌlsɪv dɪsˈɔːdər/

Etymology

The term "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder" is derived from the Latin word "obsidere" which means "to besiege", and the Latin word "compellere" which means "to compel".

Related Terms

Symptoms

People with OCD may have symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both. These symptoms can interfere with all aspects of life, such as work, school, and personal relationships.

Obsessions

Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety. Common symptoms include:

  • Fear of germs or contamination
  • Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, and harm
  • Aggressive thoughts towards others or self
  • Having things symmetrical or in a perfect order

Compulsions

People with OCD may also have compulsions. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person with OCD feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought. Common compulsions include:

  • Excessive cleaning and/or handwashing
  • Ordering and arranging things in a particular, precise way
  • Repeatedly checking on things, such as repeatedly checking to see if the door is locked or that the oven is off
  • Compulsive counting

Treatment

OCD is typically treated with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. However, treatment is unlikely to result in a complete cure, but it can help bring symptoms under control so that they don't rule the person's daily life.

External links

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