All About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 1.3% of U.S. adults had Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, in the last year. OCD is a common disorder that affects adults, adolescents, and children all over the world.
Do I Have OCD?
If you have uncontrolled obsessive thoughts and/or uncontrolled or compulsive behaviors you might be experiencing obsessive compulsive disorder.
Fear of germs or having to arrange things in a “perfect” order are some examples of obsessive thoughts. These thoughts may raise stress levels and cause heightened anxiety.
Uncontrolled ritualistic or repetitive behavior, like excessive hand washing, are called compulsions.
Most adults with OCD recognize that what they are doing doesn’t make sense, some may not realize that their behavior is out of the ordinary.
If you find these obsessions or compulsions begin to affect your lifestyle, or relationships, it might be time to seek treatment.
How do you treat OCD?
OCD is typically treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. Most patients with OCD respond to treatment, although some patients continue to experience symptoms.
