what is ocd meaning

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that affects people of all ages and walks of life. It is a long-lasting disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Obsessions are typically accompanied by intense and uncomfortable feelings such as fear, disgust, uncertainty, and doubt, or a feeling that things have to be done in a way that is “just right”. Common obsessions include fear of germs or contamination, fear of forgetting, losing, or misplacing something, fear of losing control over one’s behavior, aggressive thoughts toward others or oneself, and unwanted, forbidden, or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm. Compulsions are behaviors that a person with OCD feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. These compulsions are often time-consuming and get in the way of important activities the person values. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning, checking, counting, and arranging. People with OCD may feel ashamed and embarrassed about the condition, but treatment can be effective.