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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023
This group contains additional names: - OCD Traits - Intrusive thoughts
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by repetitive, intrusive thoughts (termed obsessions) that bring a strong sense of anxiety and stress, together with an urge to perform specific actions for temporary relief (termed compulsions). About 1-2% of the population are estimated to have OCD. There is no single cause for OCD, and both genetic and environmental factors are involved.
7,732 people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are on Alike.
repetitive, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) may include: - Fear of infection and filth. - Constant doubt. - Intrusive, unwanted violent or sexual thought. Repetitive actions that provide temporary relief (compulsions) include: - Constant checking – whether the car is locked, whether the windows are closed, etc. - Hand washing. - Counting. - Urge for symmetry. Patients can have more than one obsession and compulsion. They are usually aware that their obsessions and compulsions are unreasonable, and they struggle against them.
Diagnosis is made via a psychiatric assessment, conducted by a psychiatrist – a medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. This assessment includes questioning, physical exams, cognitive exams, and other tests that might exclude other diseases or conditions.
Treatment for OCD includes psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy includes cognitive-behavioral therapy with gradual exposure to the obsessive thought and prevention of the compulsion (called exposure and response prevention). Medical treatment includes antidepressant medications.
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
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One person shared their experience, stating that they had to ensure everything was cleaned a certain way and everyone had to shower before being intimate due to their contamination **OCD**. Their ex-spouse understood and accommodated these needs, which allowed them to maintain their relationship. However, they expressed fear about finding someone else who would be as understanding.
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"I think **ocd** concerns are definitely worth getting evaluated by a professional to see if you have it, because it's very hard to manage on your own and can easily become disabling. You can also, if you have the means, go to a psychologist and just ask to get tested for many things that you could have, which they'll help you establish after you talk with them, to find out with more certainty what you have. Also having many issues can be common especially with neurological disorders."
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