They may also engage in extensive rituals in an attempt to reduce the anxiety sparked by obsessions.
Related conditions in the class includebody-dysmorphic disorder,hoarding disorder, andtrichotillomania.
Symptoms of OCD
Symptoms of OCD usually appear gradually and can be long-lasting if not treated.
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People with OCD may experience symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both.
Such symptoms interfere with many areas of life including school, work,relationships, and normal daily functioning.
or “What if I hurt someone?").
Compulsions are often related to obsessions.
However, this is not always the case.
Everyone has repeated thoughts or engages in double-checking things from time to time.
It is experienced equally by men and women and affects all races and cultures.
OCD usually begins around late adolescence/young adulthood, although young children and teenagers can also be affected.
Types
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can present in a few different ways.
Treatment
Treatments for OCD may include medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.
Additional types of medications that affect other neurotransmitters in the brain may also be used.
Psychotherapy
Psychological therapies are also highly effective treatments for reducing the frequency and intensity of OCD symptoms.
Effective psychological treatments for OCD emphasize changes in behavior and/or thoughts.
When appropriate, psychotherapy can be done alone or combined with medication.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
National Institute of Mental Health.Obsessive compulsive disorder.
National Institute of Mental Health.Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
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American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.5th ed.
Washington D.C.: 2013.
2000;23(3):563-86. doi:10.1016/s0193-953x(05)70181-7
