|
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
|
|
What is
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
OCD is a disorder,
characterised by the presence of recurring intrusive and
unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) and
repetitive behavioural and mental rituals (compulsions).
People with OCD are usually aware that their symptoms
are irrational and excessive, but they find the
obsessions uncontrollable and the compulsions difficult
or impossible to resist |
|
What are the symptoms of
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
Obsessions and
compulsions are distressing, exhausting, take up a lot
of time, and can significantly interfere with the
person's family and social relationships, daily
routines, education or working life. Common obsessions
include: fear or contamination from germs, dirt, etc;
fears of harm to self or others; intrusive sexual
thoughts or images; concerns with symmetry, illness or
religious issues. Common compulsions include: washing;
cleaning; checking; hoarding; touching; counting; and
repeating routine activities and actions |
|
What causes Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
The causes are not
fully understood. Research indicates that OCD may be
related to chemical, structural and functional
abnormalities in the brain. Genetic and hereditary
factors may also play a role in the development of OCD.
It is likely that each person's OCD is the result of
several interacting factors and is affected by stressful
life events, hormonal changes and personality traits |
|
How many people develop
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
About three in every
hundred people with develop OCD at some time in their
lives |
