Description

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental ailment characterised by recurrent unpleasant thoughts or feelings (obsessions) or the need to repeat a behaviour (compulsions). Obsessions and compulsions can coexist in some persons. Many people with OCD are aware that their thoughts and behaviours are illogical. They do things not because they enjoy them, but because they are unable to stop. If they quit, they get so depressed that they begin again. Obsessive thoughts can include the following: • Concerns about yourself or others being hurt • Blinking, breathing, or other body sensations are constantly observed. • Suspicion of infidelity in a partner with no reason to believe it Compulsive behaviours can include: • Performing things in a precise order or a certain "acceptable" number of times • Counting items, such as steps or bottles • Fear of shaking hands, touching doorknobs, or using public restrooms. Causes Certain causes or events may enhance a person's risk of acquiring OCD or trigger an episode of the disorder: • Moving, getting married or divorced, or starting a new school or work are all examples of changes in living situations. • A loved one's death or another emotional trauma • Abuse in the past. • Illness (if you get the flu, for example, you may start a cycle of obsessing about germs and washing compulsively). • Low amounts of serotonin, a brain chemical that helps maintain mental equilibrium. • Overactivity in certain parts of the brain. • Workplace or school issues • An vital relationship is having issues

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