Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the distress caused by those thoughts. OCD can significantly disrupt daily life.

Prevalence

OCD affects approximately 2.2 million American adults — about 1% of the population.

Symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images
• Excessive hand washing, checking, or counting
• Need for things to be 'just right'
• Spending hours on rituals
• Significant distress when rituals are resisted
• Avoidance of triggering situations

Types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Contamination OCD
• Harm OCD
• Religious OCD (Scrupulosity)
• Symmetry and ordering OCD
• Pure O (primarily obsessions)
• Relationship OCD

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline, clomipramine)
• Intensive outpatient OCD programs
• Online ERP therapy

When to Seek Help

Seek help if obsessions or compulsions take more than an hour a day, cause significant distress, or interfere with your work, relationships, or daily activities.

Recovery Outlook

ERP therapy is highly effective. Most people see 60–80% reduction in symptoms with proper ERP treatment. It requires a specialized OCD therapist for best results.