OCD is characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions that are distressing or
time-consuming, impede normal functioning, or interfere with usual social
activities or relationships. Obsessions are persistent and/or urgently recurring
thoughts that the person experiences as intrusive, inappropriate, distressing,
and outside of his/her control. The thoughts are about something other than real
life worries.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or rituals that are preformed
in response to obsessions or according to a rigid set of rules. Although they are
performed to reduce or avoid distress or to thwart a dreaded event, they are
excessive and not associated in any practical or functional way to the things
they are intended to offset or prevent.
Symptoms of OCD usually first appear in
adolescence or early adulthood, but may begin in childhood. Individuals with OCD
typically have depressed moods as well.
Treatment usually involves behavioral therapies, including exposure and response
prevention. Supportive therapy also assists with related symptoms and problems,
such as depression and difficulties in familial and social relationships. There
is a strong biological component; thus, medication treatment is often recommended
in addition to individual therapy.
The following websites provide more information on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
and other childhood and adult anxiety disorders:
The OCD Foundation
Anxiety BC
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