OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. As the name suggests, it comprises obsessions and compulsions, although an individual with OCD may not experience both.
Obsessions
Obsessions are unwanted thoughts that an individual experiences. They recur and are hard to dispel, causing distress or anxiety. There are a few themes that obsessions often revolve around, extending beyond cleaning and neatness.
Examples of Obsessions
- Harm: Violent impulses or urges to cause harm to self or others
- Religion or Morality: Concerns over moral judgement, fear of offending religious entities
- Checking: Fears about negative events that might happen if reassurance is not sought
- Counting: Urge to engage in repeated acts of counting
Compulsions
While not everyone with OCD experiences them, they are usually related to an individual’s obsessions and serve to relieve the distress caused by these unwanted thoughts.
Examples of Compulsions relating to the Obsessions above
- Harm: Avoidance of situations or objects, checking to ensure harm was not inflicted
- Religion or Morality: Engaging in rituals or repetitive prayers
- Checking: Repetitive checking on the things causing you worry
- Counting: Counting mentally, measuring, waiting for specific time to do something
Signs of OCD
The content of obsessive thoughts may seem familiar to you – perhaps they are fears or urges that cross your mind at times. Yet, this does not necessarily mean that you have OCD. People with OCD face an inability to control their obsessions or compulsions, even if they recognise that their behaviour is irrational. Furthermore, significant impairment is felt in their everyday lives, due to spending at least an hour a day preoccupied with these thoughts and urges.
Coping with OCD
Professional treatment can help individuals manage their OCD, where medication and psychotherapy may be recommended to treat signs. It is important to keep in mind that while OCD is a lifelong condition, there are ways in which its impact can be minimised, enabling you to live your life to the fullest.
