Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, ideas, images, or impulses, known as obsessions. These obsessions trigger distress and anxiety, disrupting the flow of daily life. Individuals with OCD also experience compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts that they feel driven to perform in order to alleviate the distress caused by the obsessions. These compulsions are often performed in an attempt to prevent or mitigate anxiety-provoking situations. Common obsessions in OCD can encompass a fear of contamination, a fear of harm, a fear of being responsible for adverse events, a fear of making errors, and a need for rigid order and symmetry. Common compulsions can include excessive hand washing, counting rituals, ordering and arranging objects, checking behaviors, and cleaning routines. These compulsions are frequently time-consuming and interfere with daily functioning, causing considerable difficulty in all aspects of life, including relationships, work, and social interactions. Individuals with OCD typically experience significant distress related to their symptoms and may also struggle with co-occurring depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and functional impairments. The disorder can be debilitating and can substantially hinder an individual’s ability to function effectively in daily life.

According to the International OCD Foundation, approximately 1-2% of the US population experiences OCD. OCD can develop at any age, but it most commonly emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood. OCD affects individuals of all genders equally. OCD is often associated with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and tic disorders, such as Tourette’s syndrome. OCD can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, affecting their professional pursuits, academic performance, and social relationships. Individuals with OCD may dedicate several hours each day to performing compulsions or ruminating about their obsessions, which can impede their ability to function effectively and complete daily tasks.

OCD is a treatable condition, and evidence-based treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. Psychiatric treatment for OCD typically involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Medications commonly used to treat OCD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety medications. SSRIs work by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which aids in reducing anxiety and obsessive thoughts. Antipsychotics can help to diminish the intensity of intrusive thoughts. Anti-anxiety medications may be utilized to alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety that often accompany OCD. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) can be employed to assist individuals with OCD in modifying their thought patterns and behaviors. CBT aids in identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, while ERP involves gradually exposing oneself to the source of their anxiety and learning to resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors.