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Tell Me More About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
1. What are the symptoms of OCD?
As the name Obsessive Compulsive Disorder suggests, there are two important symptoms that constitute the disorder: an obsession over unwanted thoughts and a compulsion to repeat actions or words. The obsessive (i.e. excessive, intrusive and unwanted) thoughts or images cause a great deal of anxiety. The thoughts or images may focus on harm coming to a loved one, or the possibility of getting a serious illness or of doing something socially inappropriate such as shouting blasphemy in public.
The compulsive (i.e. virtually uncontrollable urges) actions usually consist of repeated physical activities, such as frequent washing, repeated counting of items or checking the work of others. The compulsions are a reaction that helps control the anxiety caused by the obsessive thoughts.
People with OCD often avoid feared situations that trigger unwanted thoughts and actions. This can limit their activities a great deal. The symptoms usually cause significant distress and impairment and can make it very difficult for people to complete school or develop a career.
Often, people with OCD experience bouts of sadness and depression. Fortunately, many treatments that are effective for OCD also alleviate depression.
Reference:
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Edition Text Revision. 2000 American Psychiatric Association, Washington DC.
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