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Definition of Disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental condition characterized by persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that interfere with daily life. Symptoms include anxiety-inducing obsessions about contamination, harm, or order, and compulsions like excessive cleaning or checking. Diagnosis involves a healthcare professional assessment, and treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.

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11 views1 page

Definition of Disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental condition characterized by persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that interfere with daily life. Symptoms include anxiety-inducing obsessions about contamination, harm, or order, and compulsions like excessive cleaning or checking. Diagnosis involves a healthcare professional assessment, and treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.

Uploaded by

cpiavfx
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental condition that involves


experiencing thoughts (obsessions) and rituals (compulsions) over and over again.
They interfere with your life, but you cannot control or stop them.

What are the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder?


People with OCD may have symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both:
Obsessions are thoughts, impulses, or mental images that repeat themselves and
cause anxiety. They may involve things like:
Fear of germs or contamination
Fear of losing or misplaceing something
Concerns about harm that may affect you or others
Unwanted forbidden thoughts involving sex or religion
Aggressive thoughts towards yourself or others
Needing things to be aligned exactly or arranged in a particular, precise way

Compulsions are behaviors that you feel you must do over and over again to try to
reduce your anxiety or stop obsessive thoughts. Some common compulsions
include:
Excessive cleaning and/or handwashing
Repeatedly checking things, such as whether the door is closed or the oven is off,
compulsive counting
Order and organize things in a particular and precise way.

How is obsessive-compulsive disorder diagnosed?


The first step is to talk to your healthcare professional about your symptoms. It is
important to check if a physical problem is causing your symptoms. Your provider
will then do a physical exam and ask about your medical history. If your symptoms
don't seem to be caused by a physical problem, your provider may test you for
OCD or refer you to a mental health specialist for further evaluation or treatment.

What are the treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder? The main treatments
for obsessive-compulsive disorder are cognitive behavioral therapy, medications, or
both:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy. Teaches different
ways to think, behave, and react to your obsessions and compulsions.
Exposure therapy with response prevention involves gradually exposing you to your
fears or obsessions. Learn healthy ways to deal with anxiety-causing
Medications for OCD include certain types of antidepressants. If they don't work for
you, your provider may suggest you take another type of psychiatric medicine.

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