Overview
Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental health condition in which unwanted, distressing thoughts (obsessions) drive a person to perform repeated actions or rituals (compulsions) to relieve the anxiety, such as excessive washing, checking or arranging. The person often knows the fears are irrational but cannot stop, and the rituals can take over hours of the day. It is common and often hidden out of embarrassment. It is very treatable with a specific talking therapy and, when needed, medicines.
Symptoms
- Repeated, unwanted, distressing thoughts, fears or images
- A strong urge to perform rituals to ease the anxiety
- Excessive washing, cleaning, checking or arranging
- Needing things in a particular order or repeating actions
- Rituals that take up a lot of time and disrupt daily life
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or mental health professional if repeated thoughts and rituals take up significant time or distress you — effective treatment is available.
Causes
A mix of genetics, brain chemistry and life stress; it is not a character flaw or simply being tidy.