Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Everything You Need to Know

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is classified as a common mental illness that causes the affected person to experience a pattern of unwanted thoughts and obsessions. The person with OCD feels compelled to perform certain actions compulsively, repeatedly, and excessively; such as washing hands, cleaning objects, or biting nails.

Many people may experience various thoughts and obsessions, but this does not necessarily mean they have OCD. Individuals without OCD continue moving forward in life without being affected by these obsessions, while the life of a person with OCD is significantly impacted — spending more than an hour a day under the weight of these obsessions and engaging in unpleasant actions beyond their control.

Types and Symptoms of OCD

OCD is not limited to handwashing and nail-biting; it can also involve obsessive thoughts about certain numbers or colors being “bad” or “good.” These obsessions repeat, causing distress and anxiety. There are many forms of OCD, but they generally fall into the following four categories:

1. Contamination: Fear of dirt and germs, which may extend to mental contamination — the fear of being treated as if one is dirty.
2. Obsessive Thoughts: A series of intrusive thoughts such as doubt, aggressive thoughts, and sometimes violent or disturbing ideas.
3. Checking: Repeatedly checking locks, lights, or fearing having a medical condition such as schizophrenia.
4. Symmetry and Order: An intense need to arrange items in a specific way.

Behaviors Related to OCD

Thoughts and obsessions in OCD recur, causing painful feelings like anxiety and disgust. Even though the person knows these obsessions are imaginary, they cannot ignore them or resist complying. Behaviors related to OCD are divided into two types:

1 – Obsessions:

• Fear of contamination when interacting with people or touching objects
• Intrusive sexual thoughts or images
• Fear of being insulted
• Repetitive thoughts of sounds, images, words, or numbers
• Unfounded suspicion of a partner
• Fear of losing or discarding something important
• Constant anxiety
• Repeated counting of a specific number

2 – Compulsions:

• Excessive handwashing, bathing, brushing teeth, or cleaning household items
• Repeatedly checking locks, keys, or appliances
• Performing tasks in a specific order every time or with excessive repetition
• Feeling the need to count items, such as steps

Causes of OCD

There are currently no clear medical causes for OCD, but it is somewhat linked to stress. Statistics show that women are more likely to develop it than men, and it often begins during adolescence. Factors that may contribute to developing this disorder include:

• Genetics
• Depression and anxiety
• Trauma
• Experiencing physical or sexual abuse during childhood
• Chemical changes in the body or brain
• Exposure to bullying, abuse, or neglect

How to Overcome OCD

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and relaxing through yoga, massage, and meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety caused by OCD. While there is currently no cure for OCD, adhering to medications prescribed by a doctor can help the patient manage their thoughts and behaviors.