The 7 symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent, recurring thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) that cause anxiety or distress, and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that the person feels driven to perform in response to the obsessions or according to rigid rules. These behaviors or mental acts are intended to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions or to prevent a feared event or situation. However, the compulsions are not realistically connected to the obsessions, or they are excessive or unreasonable.
The 7 symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) include:
- Obsessions: recurrent, persistent, and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses that cause anxiety or distress. Examples include fears of contamination, harming others, blasphemy, or losing control.
- Compulsions: repetitive behaviors or mental acts that the person feels driven to perform in response to the obsessions or according to rigid rules. Examples include excessive cleaning, checking, counting, praying, or repeating words or phrases.
- Impairment: the obsessions or compulsions take up a lot of time, cause significant distress, or interfere with the person's daily life, occupational or academic performance, or social functioning.
- Recognition: the person realizes that the obsessions or compulsions are excessive or unreasonable
- Resistance: the person tries to resist or control the obsessions or compulsions but often feels compelled to perform them
- anxiety or distress
- Avoidance: the person avoids situations that trigger or exacerbate the obsessions or compulsions
It is important to note that not everyone with OCD has both Obsession and Compulsion; some may have only obsession or only compulsion.
If you suspect you may have OCD, it is recommended that you speak with a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.