Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment
What is OCD?
OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It is a mental health disorder characterized by recurring, intrusive, and distressing thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) that are often followed by repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform to relieve the anxiety caused by their obsessions.
People with OCD may feel trapped in a cycle of obsessions and compulsions, which can significantly interfere with their daily functioning and quality of life. Common obsessions include contamination, doubt, harm, perfectionism and superstitions. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning or washing, checking behaviors, and repetitive counting or organizing.
OCD can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors, and it often co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders. Treatment for OCD may include a combination of medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and exposure and response prevention therapy, which involves gradually exposing individuals to their fears and teaching them to resist their compulsions.