Guide Note

OCD is an acronym for the mental disorder known specifically as obsessive-compulsive disorder. OCD is a type of anxiety disorder. OCD can persist throughout a persons life. The symptoms of OCD can be mild to severe. If severe, they can interfere with a persons ability to function at work, school and home.

OCD involves uncontrollable urges, rituals, or thoughts that cannot be put out of a persons mind. Such behavior, may be all consuming, and eventually take over the person's life. A person with OCD feels the need to repeat the same thing over and over to keep bad things from happening. The symptoms of OCD consist of obsession, the constant idea that something bad is going to happen, and compulsion, the constant action to try to prevent the bad things. For example, someone that is worried about germs will wash their hands over and over.

The precise cause of OCD is still not known. While some researchers believe it is a chemical imbalance, others see it as a physical condition.

Fast Facts

1. Common disorder
2. Symptoms often start in childhood
3. Common compulsions: Hand washing and repeating behavior
4. Affects men and women equally

1. 2-3 times more common than schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
2. Affects 2.3% of population per year
3. 1 in 40 will suffer at some point in life
4. Cost $8.4 billion in 1990

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have OCD - Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, please consult your doctor.