Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), while technically an Anxiety Disorder, appears on the surface to be very different.  It affects both men and women equally.  One-third of afflicted adults had their first symptoms in childhood. Symptoms of OCD include either recurrent and unwanted obsessions (thoughts, impulses, images) or compulsions (repetitive behaviors in an effort to prevent or reduce distress or an event).  The person recognizes that the obsessions or compulsions are excessive and unreasonable and have caused significant distress, are time consuming, or significantly interfere with the person’s normal routine.   Common obsessions and compulsions include:

• hand washing
• counting
• door checking
• praying
• thoughts of contamination
• sexual imagery
• need for order or symmetry

The disorder can manifest in many ways and does not have to involve significant obsessions or compulsions but can involve  significant interpersonal problems and the inhibition of a healthy expression of emotions.  If you would like more information please call our Center.