Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

 (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts and repetitive, ritualized behaviors you feel compelled to perform. Obsessions are involuntary, seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, images, or impulses that occur over and over again in your mind. Compulsions are behaviors or rituals that you feel driven to act out again and again.

Is the front door locked? Did I turn off the stove? I thought I unplugged the iron, but am I sure?

Going back and rechecking to make sure we did something important such as locking the door to our home is common and natural. As the term 'OCD' has become more popular in our everyday language, many people try to relate to the symptoms of this disorder. However, being thorough with our jobs or schoolwork, color-coding our wardrobes or even being exceptionally clean does not mean that we suffer from psychological disorder.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is one of the most common types of psychological disorder. OCD is most commonly defined by its symptoms. OCD sufferers experience recurrent, invasive thoughts or repetitive actions that are understood to be irrational and unnecessary. These recurring, invasive thoughts, called obsessions, and uncontrollable, repetitive actions, called compulsions, cause the person significant stress and disruption in their daily life. Regardless of the name, not all people with OCD suffer from both obsessions and compulsions, even though it is most common together.

OCD can take many forms. The following are only a few of the common types of OCD:

• Seeking cleanliness, orderliness or symmetry
• Performing repetitive acts that are thought to be protective, such as counting or praying
• Repeatedly checking, often for the purpose of safety
• Hoarding

Disorders associated with gambling, drinking, overeating and Internet addiction are not considered part of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Although someone may describe themselves as a compulsive gambler, these activities are considered pleasurable. The compulsions of an OCD sufferer often cause anxiety, guilt, grief, remorse and pain. In addition, people with OCD are aware that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational and cause them problems.

It is important to understand how the obsessions and compulsions of OCD are different than those that we may consider normal.