OCD

From Drug Rehab Wiki

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic illness in which an individual experiences obsessive thoughts and reacts to the thoughts with compulsive, ritualistic behaviors. These behaviors become so necessary to the individual that the disorder begins to control his or her life.

Common OCD rituals include counting or ordering items to result in a certain number, washing one’s hands excessively, repeatedly checking household appliances or locks, or looking at one’s appearance in the mirror repeatedly or for extended periods of time.

Although the individual does not get any pleasure out of performing these compulsions, they do achieve a sense of (temporary) relief from the anxiety of the obsession until something ignites its inevitable return. Most sufferers of OCD are embarrassed by these rituals and feel ashamed of their compulsions, yet find themselves bound to their situation as they are unable to overcome their obsessions.

These individuals may be aware that their actions are pointless or irrational but do not know how to prevent them. The rituals invade every aspect of their daily living and can make certain activities impossible. These individuals may isolate themselves from others to avoid situations, and many turn to substance abuse to supplement the compulsions and reduce anxiety, which results in even more problems.

OCD affects more than two million Americans. It can develop during childhood, but the majority of cases develop during adulthood. The disorder is believed to be genetic and can be experienced in influxes of improvement or worsening over time. OCD can be treated with proper psychotherapy in which the individual confronts his or her fear or anxiety stimulus head-on in order to desensitize the distressing effects of the stimulus. Many cases require the combination of prescribed medication with therapeutic treatment upon the advice of a medical professional.

For more information, read Obsessive-compulsive disorder