EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH
Obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly referred to as OCD, is a mental health condition that causes unwanted and intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors or rituals.
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
How obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) might show up
Individuals with OCD experience significant anxiety and distress from their obsessions and compulsions, which can interfere with daily life—including work, school, and in relationships with friends and family members.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can show up in diverse ways for people. The obsessions associated with OCD can include fear of germs and a need for things to be symmetrical. Compulsions involved with OCD can include washing hands excessively or checking the locks on the door repeatedly.
It is normal to worry and be particular about certain things. What separates those from OCD is how much those feelings and habits are disrupting your daily life.
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Signs that you may be struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder include:
- Obsessions and compulsions are consuming a lot of your time
- Actions or thoughts are interfering with work, school, or relationships
- Anxiety and stress related to these activities and behaviors is causes intense anxiety and overwhelming feelings
Treatment for OCD most commonly involves therapy, medication management, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant OCD.
Frequently asked questions about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
-
OCD is a serious mental health condition, and the term “OCD” is often used casually or as slang to describe people with common, everyday worries or particular ways of doing things. More appropriate terms like picky or perfectionist might be more appropriate.
-
You can support or help someone with OCD by learning more about obsessive-compulsive disorder and how it works. Be patient and understanding with them, encourage them to seek help as necessary and be supportive of their efforts to get help.