Commonly known as OCD, obsessive compulsive disorder is characterized by uncontrollable, persistent thoughts (obsessions) accompanied by irresistible urges to carry out particular actions or rituals (compulsions). Obsessions are unwanted thoughts, images, or feelings that enter the mind repeatedly and cause disturbing feelings of anxiety or disgust.
A person with OCD may recognize that the obsessions are irrational but is unable to ignore them. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that the person feels driven to perform to relieve the disturbing feelings caused by the obsession.
The compulsive acts (repetitive handwashing, for example) may have to be carried out so many times that they seriously disrupt normal life.
Mild OCD can often be successfully treated with psychotherapy.
In more severe cases, psychotherapy and antidepressant medication may be used.
Most people improve within about a year of starting treatment, but for a minority OCD may persist long-term.